How do you calculate the wavelength of a wave?

To calculate the wavelength of a wave, the formula λ = v/f is utilized, where λ represents the wavelength, v is the wave's speed, and f is the frequency of the wave. This relationship arises from the definition of wave motion; the speed of a wave is the distance it travels (wavelength) multiplied by how many times it oscillates per second (frequency).

By rearranging this equation, one can see that if the speed of the wave is known and the frequency is measurable, the wavelength can be easily calculated. This formula is fundamental in wave physics and applies to various types of waves, including sound waves, light waves, and water waves.

The other choices do not provide a valid method for calculating wavelength. Specifically, measuring the amplitude of a wave gives information about the wave’s energy but does not relate to its wavelength. Determining frequency and pressure does not yield wavelength either, as pressure is not a relevant variable in the formula for wave properties. Lastly, the equation F = ma relates to Newton's second law of motion and does not pertain to wave mechanics, making it unsuitable for calculating wavelength.