Physics

Physics

Problem

A commercial FM radio station broadcasts at a carrier frequency of 95.0 MHz95.0\,\text{MHz}. Treat the waves as travelling in air at 3.0×108 m s−13.0\times10^{8}\,\text{m s}^{-1}. a. (i) Calculate the wavelength of the broadcast wave. b. (ii) Determine the time period of the oscillations. c. (iii) Find the angular frequency of the wave.
Intuitive explanation

The key to FM radio is connecting the broadcast frequency to the physical wavelength of the electromagnetic wave. Since you know the wave speed in air and the frequency, you can use the fundamental wave relationship v=fλv = f\lambda to find how far apart successive wave crests are. This wavelength tells you the physical scale of the antenna and propagation needed to transmit and receive the signal effectively.

Intuitive explanation

The key to FM radio is connecting the broadcast frequency to the physical wavelength of the electromagnetic wave. Since you know the wave speed in air and the frequency, you can use the fundamental wave relationship v=fλv = f\lambda to find how far apart successive wave crests are. This wavelength tells you the physical scale of the antenna and propagation needed to transmit and receive the signal effectively.

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