If the frequency of a transducer is increased, which of the following will decrease?

Increasing the frequency of a transducer results in a decrease in wavelength. This relationship is governed by the wave equation, which states that the speed of a wave is equal to its frequency multiplied by its wavelength. In ultrasound, the speed of sound in soft tissue is relatively constant at approximately 1540 m/s. Therefore, when the frequency of the ultrasound beam increases, the wavelength must decrease to maintain this constant speed.

For instance, if you double the frequency, the wavelength will be halved. This characteristic is essential in ultrasound imaging, as shorter wavelengths generally provide better resolution, allowing for more detail in the images produced.

Understanding this principle is crucial in sonography, as it impacts the choice of frequencies for different imaging needs based on the desired resolution and the depth of penetration required for specific clinical scenarios.