Which of the following correctly describes the relationship between the wavelength (λ) and frequency (ν) of electromagnetic radiation?

• A. As wavelength increases, frequency increases.
• B. As wavelength increases, frequency decreases.
• C. Wavelength and frequency are independent of each other.
• D. As frequency increases, wavelength remains constant.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Recall the fundamental relationship between the speed of light (c), wavelength (\lambda), and frequency (\nu) of electromagnetic radiation, which is given by the equation: \(c = \lambda \times \nu\)
2. Understand that the speed of light (c) is a constant value in a vacuum, approximately \$3.00 \times 10^{8}$ meters per second.
3. Since \(c\) is constant, if the wavelength (\lambda) increases, the frequency (\nu) must decrease to keep the product \(\lambda \times \nu\) equal to \(c\).
4. Conversely, if the frequency (\nu) increases, the wavelength (\lambda) must decrease, showing an inverse relationship between wavelength and frequency.
5. Therefore, the correct description is: 'As wavelength increases, frequency decreases,' because wavelength and frequency are inversely proportional.