An increase in frequency of a radio wave will have what effect on its wavelength?

The relationship between frequency and wavelength of a radio wave is described by the equation:

[ v = f \cdot \lambda ]

where ( v ) represents the speed of the wave, ( f ) is the frequency, and ( \lambda ) is the wavelength. In the context of radio waves, the speed of the wave (in a vacuum) is constant at approximately ( 3 \times 10^8 ) meters per second.

When the frequency of a radio wave increases, the wavelength must decrease to maintain the constant speed of the wave. This inverse relationship between frequency and wavelength indicates that as one increases, the other must decrease. Thus, an increase in frequency leads to a corresponding decrease in wavelength.

Understanding this relationship is crucial not only for radio wave propagation but also for the design and operation of various electronic systems that utilize radio frequencies, such as telecommunications and broadcasting. Therefore, the correct answer is that an increase in frequency will result in a decrease in wavelength.