ARDMS Ultrasound Physics & Instrumentation Practice Exam

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Prepare for the ARDMS Ultrasound Physics Exam. Use flashcards and multiple-choice questions with hints and explanations. Get exam-ready!

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Which of the following factors determines the wavelength of a sound wave?

The sound source only
The medium only
Sound source and medium
Frequency only

The correct answer is: Sound source and medium

Wavelength is a fundamental property of sound waves that is influenced by both the sound source and the medium through which the wave travels. The sound source determines the frequency of the wave, which is the number of cycles per second. In contrast, the medium affects the speed of sound, which varies based on characteristics such as density and elasticity. The relationship between wavelength, frequency, and speed can be described by the equation: Wavelength = Speed of Sound / Frequency In this equation, the speed of sound is dependent on the medium, while frequency is determined by the sound source. Therefore, both factors play a crucial role in determining the wavelength. If either one changes—say, if the frequency increases while the speed of sound remains constant, or if the medium changes—the wavelength will also change accordingly. This interplay explains why the correct answer encompasses both the sound source and the medium.