Period, frequency, and wavelength are interconnected properties of waves and can be described by the following relationships:
Period (T): The period of a wave is the time it takes for one complete cycle of the wave to pass a given point. It is usually measured in seconds (s). The period is inversely related to the frequency of the wave.
Relationship: T = 1/f
Where: T = Period of the wave (in seconds) f = Frequency of the wave (in hertz, Hz)
Frequency (f): The frequency of a wave is the number of complete cycles of the wave that occur in one second. It is measured in hertz (Hz) or cycles per second. The frequency is inversely related to the period of the wave.
Relationship: f = 1/T
Where: f = Frequency of the wave (in hertz, Hz) T = Period of the wave (in seconds)
Wavelength (λ): The wavelength of a wave is the distance between two consecutive points that are in phase, such as two consecutive crests or troughs. It is usually measured in meters (m). The wavelength of a wave is inversely proportional to its frequency.
Relationship: λ = c/f
Where: λ = Wavelength of the wave (in meters, m) c = Speed of light (in meters per second, m/s) f = Frequency of the wave (in hertz, Hz)
The relationships above demonstrate that as the frequency of a wave increases, its period decreases and vice versa. Additionally, as the frequency of a wave increases, its wavelength decreases and vice versa.