247SimpleTests
ASVAB · Signals, Frequency, and Radio

What is the relationship between the wavelength and frequency of a radio wave?

Reviewed by Jordan Morley, Editorial Lead at 247SimpleTests. Written by the 247SimpleTests Editorial Team from the official source material cited on every question.

Correct answer

As frequency increases, wavelength decreases (they are inversely related)

  1. A They are unrelated
  2. B As frequency increases, wavelength decreases (they are inversely related)
  3. C They are always equal
  4. D Higher frequency means longer wavelength

Why this is the answer

Wavelength and frequency are inversely related: as the frequency of a wave increases, its wavelength decreases, and vice versa. This is because the speed of the wave (the speed of light for radio waves) equals frequency multiplied by wavelength, so if the speed is constant, raising one quantity lowers the other. High-frequency signals have short wavelengths; low-frequency signals have long wavelengths. This relationship matters in radio, where different bands use different frequencies and corresponding wavelengths. Remembering the inverse relationship between frequency and wavelength is common on the signals portion of the Electronics subtest.
Source: ASVAB Electronics Information — Wavelength and Frequency

Practice more questions

This question is from our ASVAB Practice Tests practice test. Take the full practice test to test your knowledge across all Signals, Frequency, and Radio and other topics.

Take the Electronics Information practice test →

About this topic: Signals, Frequency, and Radio

Signals, frequency and radio questions cover wavelength and frequency, AM versus FM, antennas and the basics of how a signal is modulated and received. The maths is limited to the relationship between frequency, wavelength and the speed of light. This is one of 6 Electronics Information questions on signals, frequency, and radio, each with a full explanation on a single study page.

New to this exam? Our ASVAB exam guide explains the format, scoring, and how to prepare.

Related questions

Signals, Frequency, and Radio

What is the unit of frequency?

 Signals, Frequency, and Radio

What is the difference between AC and DC?

 Signals, Frequency, and Radio

What is an antenna used for?

 Signals, Frequency, and Radio

What is the frequency range of human hearing?

Recommended study materials

Study guide

ASVAB Total Prep (Kaplan)

Kaplan's complete ASVAB guide with 1,000+ practice questions, 6 full-length tests, and AFQT focus.

Check Price → Study guide

Barron's ASVAB with Online Tests 12th Ed.

Comprehensive ASVAB review for all nine subtests with full-length practice exams and online tools.

Check Price → Study guide

ASVAB for Dummies 4th Ed. (Wiley)

Accessible, thorough ASVAB prep covering all subtests with tips for boosting your AFQT score.

Check Price →

As an Amazon Associate, CJ Affiliate, and AWIN publisher we earn from qualifying purchases. Links above are affiliate links. Full disclosure →