Which of the following describes the relationship between speed, wavelength, and frequency in light?

Study for the ALEKS Placement Chemistry Exam. Review flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Get ready for your chemistry exam!

The correct answer demonstrates the fundamental relationship between speed, wavelength, and frequency in light, which is encapsulated in the equation Speed = Wavelength × Frequency. This relationship states that the speed of light (or any electromagnetic wave) is equal to the product of its wavelength and its frequency.

In this context, the speed refers to how fast the light wave is traveling. Wavelength is the distance between successive peaks (or troughs) of the wave, while frequency is the number of wave cycles that pass a point per unit of time, typically measured in hertz (Hz). This relationship highlights that as the wavelength increases, the frequency decreases, provided that the speed of light remains constant.

This equation is foundational in understanding electromagnetic radiation, including visible light, and is applicable across various areas of physics and chemistry. Other options present misunderstandings of these relationships, failing to appropriately describe how wavelength, frequency, and speed interact in the context of light.

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