Wavelength Formula:
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The wavelength formula calculates the distance between consecutive identical points of a wave (such as crest to crest or trough to trough) using the relationship between wave velocity and frequency.
The calculator uses the wavelength formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula shows that wavelength is inversely proportional to frequency - higher frequency waves have shorter wavelengths when velocity remains constant.
Details: Calculating wavelength is essential in various fields including acoustics, optics, radio communications, and wave physics. It helps determine wave properties and behavior in different media.
Tips: Enter velocity in m/s and frequency in Hz. Both values must be positive numbers greater than zero for accurate calculation.
Q1: What is the relationship between wavelength and frequency?
A: Wavelength and frequency have an inverse relationship. As frequency increases, wavelength decreases when wave velocity remains constant.
Q2: How does the medium affect wave velocity?
A: Wave velocity depends on the properties of the medium. Sound travels faster in solids than in liquids, and faster in liquids than in gases.
Q3: What are typical wavelength values for sound waves?
A: For audible sound (20 Hz to 20,000 Hz) in air (343 m/s), wavelengths range from about 17 meters to 1.7 centimeters.
Q4: Can this formula be used for all types of waves?
A: Yes, this universal wave equation applies to all periodic waves including sound waves, light waves, water waves, and electromagnetic waves.
Q5: How does temperature affect sound wavelength?
A: Temperature affects sound velocity in air (increases with temperature), which in turn affects wavelength for a given frequency.