How does the speed of light relate to its wavelength?

• A. The speed remains constant regardless of wavelength
• B. Speed decreases with longer wavelengths
• C. Speed increases with shorter wavelengths
• D. Speed is inversely proportional to the wavelength

Answer: (D)

The relationship between the speed of light and its wavelength is an essential concept in physics. Light travels at a constant speed in a vacuum, approximately 299,792 kilometers per second. This speed is independent of the wavelength of the light. However, when you consider various media, the speed can change, but it is still fundamentally tied to the wavelength through the wave equation.

The correct answer highlights that the speed of light is indeed inversely proportional to its wavelength in the context of electromagnetic waves. This means that as the wavelength increases, the frequency decreases, given that the speed of light remains constant. In equation form, this is represented as:

[ c = \lambda \cdot f ]

where ( c ) is the speed of light, ( \lambda ) is the wavelength, and ( f ) is the frequency. Rearranging gives us the relationship that shows how speed is connected to frequency and wavelength. Specifically, if the wavelength increases (longer wavelengths), the frequency must decrease to keep the product of the wavelength and frequency equal to the constant speed of light.

Understanding this relationship is crucial because it leads to insights about various types of electromagnetic radiation, such as visible light, radio waves, and gamma rays, all of which