Home Back

Calculate Light Wavelength From Frequency

Wavelength Formula:

\[ \lambda = \frac{c}{f} \]

Where:
λ = wavelength (m)
c = speed of light = 3×108 m/s
f = frequency (Hz)

Hz

Unit Converter ▲

Unit Converter ▼

From: To:

1. What is Light Wavelength?

Wavelength (λ) is the distance between successive crests of a wave, typically measured in meters. For electromagnetic waves like light, it determines the color we perceive and is inversely proportional to frequency.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the wavelength formula:

\[ \lambda = \frac{c}{f} \]

Where:

Explanation: The equation shows that wavelength is inversely proportional to frequency - higher frequency waves have shorter wavelengths, and vice versa.

3. Importance of Wavelength Calculation

Details: Calculating wavelength is essential in optics, telecommunications, astronomy, and many physics applications. It helps determine the properties of electromagnetic radiation and is fundamental to understanding wave behavior.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter frequency in Hertz (Hz). The value must be greater than 0. The calculator will compute the corresponding wavelength in meters.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the relationship between frequency and wavelength?
A: Frequency and wavelength have an inverse relationship. As frequency increases, wavelength decreases, and vice versa.

Q2: What is the speed of light in different media?
A: The speed of light is 3×108 m/s in vacuum, but it slows down in other media like water or glass.

Q3: How does wavelength relate to color?
A: In the visible spectrum, different wavelengths correspond to different colors: violet (380-450 nm), blue (450-495 nm), green (495-570 nm), yellow (570-590 nm), orange (590-620 nm), and red (620-750 nm).

Q4: Can this calculator be used for other electromagnetic waves?
A: Yes, the formula applies to all electromagnetic radiation including radio waves, microwaves, infrared, visible light, ultraviolet, X-rays, and gamma rays.

Q5: What are typical frequency ranges for visible light?
A: Visible light frequencies range from approximately 4.3×1014 Hz (red) to 7.5×1014 Hz (violet).

Calculate Light Wavelength From Frequency© - All Rights Reserved 2025