What factors determine the wavelength of a sound wave?

The wavelength of a sound wave is fundamentally determined by the frequency of the sound and the characteristics of the medium through which it travels. This relationship is explained by the wave equation, which states that the speed of sound in a medium is equal to the product of its frequency and wavelength. When the frequency of a sound wave increases while the speed of sound in the medium remains constant, the wavelength decreases, and vice versa.

The sound source is crucial because it dictates the frequency of the sound waves produced. For example, a vibrating tuning fork generates sound waves at a specific frequency, thus determining the wavelength. The medium is equally important; the speed of sound varies in different materials (such as air, water, and steel). The density and elasticity of the medium affect how fast sound travels, which in turn influences the wavelength for a given frequency.

In contrast to other options, factors like power, amplitude, and intensity affect the loudness or energy of the sound but do not influence the wavelength. Only the frequency and the medium type dictate how long or short the wavelength is, making the combination of sound source and medium the key determinants for wavelength.