The fisherman noticed that in 20 seconds the float makes 40 vibrations and the distance between

The fisherman noticed that in 20 seconds the float makes 40 vibrations and the distance between adjacent wave crests is exactly 2 m. What is the wave propagation speed?

Initial data: t (duration of float oscillations) = 20 s; n (the number of vibrations that the float made) = 40 vibrations; λ (distance between adjacent wave crests, wavelength) = 2 m.

1) Determine the period of oscillation of the float: T = t / n = 20/40 = 0.5 s.

2) Let’s calculate the speed of wave propagation: υ = λ / T = 2 / 0.5 = 4 m / s.

Answer: Waves propagate at a speed of 4 m / s.