What is the relationship between frequency and wavelength?

The relationship between frequency and wavelength is inversely proportional. This means that as the frequency of a wave increases, the wavelength decreases, and vice versa. This relationship arises from the wave equation, where the speed of the wave is equal to the product of its frequency and wavelength. For a given speed, any increase in frequency must be accompanied by a decrease in wavelength in order to maintain that constant speed.

Understanding this principle is crucial in the study of sound waves and light waves, as it helps to explain various phenomena such as pitch perception in hearing and color perception in vision. This foundational concept is key to grasping how different auditory and visual experiences are generated and interpreted in both normal developmental and clinical contexts.