ARDMS Ultrasound Physics & Instrumentation Practice Exam

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Study for the ARDMS Ultrasound Physics and Instrumentation Exam. Practice with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question includes hints and explanations. Prepare for success!

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What effect does increasing the frequency have on wavelength in ultrasound?

Wavelength increases
Wavelength decreases
Wavelength remains constant
Frequency and wavelength are unrelated

The correct answer is: Wavelength decreases

When the frequency of an ultrasound wave increases, the wavelength decreases. This relationship is fundamental to wave mechanics and can be understood through the equation that links frequency, wavelength, and the speed of sound in a medium. The equation is given as: **Speed = Frequency × Wavelength** In ultrasound, the speed of sound in soft tissue is approximately constant. Therefore, if the speed remains the same and the frequency increases, the wavelength must decrease to maintain the equation's validity. This inverse relationship means that higher frequency ultrasound waves have shorter wavelengths, which is significant in clinical applications because shorter wavelengths can provide higher resolution images in diagnostic ultrasound. This principle is crucial for understanding how different frequencies affect image quality and the ability to detect smaller structures within the body.