Decreasing the wavelength of ultrasound will have what effect on frequency?

When the wavelength of ultrasound decreases, the frequency increases. This relationship is explained by the fundamental wave equation, which states that frequency is inversely related to wavelength when the propagation speed of sound remains constant.

In mathematical terms, the frequency (f) is equal to the speed of sound (v) divided by the wavelength (λ):

f = v / λ.

Thus, if the speed of sound remains constant (which it typically does in a given medium), decreasing the wavelength will result in a higher frequency. This principle is crucial in ultrasound, as higher frequencies can provide better resolution in imaging but have reduced penetration compared to lower frequencies, which is essential to consider in clinical applications.

Therefore, the correct interpretation of the relationship between wavelength and frequency in this context confirms that decreasing the wavelength leads to an increase in frequency.