If a 5.0 MHz transducer replaces a 2.25 MHz transducer, what is the effect on the wavelength of the longitudinal wave mode?

The wavelength of a sound wave is inversely proportional to its frequency, which means that as the frequency increases, the wavelength decreases. This relationship is described by the formula:

[ \text{Wavelength} = \frac{v}{f} ]

where ( v ) is the velocity of sound in the material and ( f ) is the frequency of the wave. When a higher frequency transducer, such as the 5.0 MHz transducer, is used in place of a lower frequency transducer, like the 2.25 MHz transducer, the frequency has increased.

Since the velocity of sound in the material remains constant, the increased frequency leads to a shorter wavelength. Therefore, replacing the 2.25 MHz transducer with a 5.0 MHz transducer will result in a decrease in the wavelength of the longitudinal wave mode.

Understanding this concept is essential in nondestructive testing because the wavelength impacts resolution and detection capabilities, as shorter wavelengths can detect smaller flaws in materials.