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Wavelength Equation:
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The wavelength equation describes the relationship between the wavelength (λ), velocity (v), and frequency (f) of a wave. It is a fundamental equation in physics used to calculate the distance between successive crests of a wave.
The calculator uses the wavelength equation:
Where:
Explanation: The equation shows that wavelength is inversely proportional to frequency when velocity is constant. Higher frequency waves have shorter wavelengths.
Details: Wavelength calculation is essential in various fields including telecommunications, acoustics, optics, and electromagnetic theory. It helps in designing antennas, musical instruments, optical devices, and understanding wave behavior.
Tips: Enter velocity in meters per second and frequency in Hertz. 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, and vice versa, when the wave velocity remains constant.
Q2: Does this equation apply to all types of waves?
A: Yes, this fundamental wave equation applies to all wave types including sound waves, light waves, water waves, and electromagnetic waves.
Q3: How does medium affect wave velocity?
A: Wave velocity changes with the medium. For example, sound travels faster in water than in air, and light travels slower in glass than in vacuum.
Q4: What are typical wavelength values for visible light?
A: Visible light wavelengths range from approximately 380 nm (violet) to 750 nm (red), which is 3.8×10⁻⁷ to 7.5×10⁻⁷ meters.
Q5: Can this calculator be used for electromagnetic waves?
A: Yes, for electromagnetic waves in vacuum, the velocity is constant (speed of light, c = 3×10⁸ m/s), so the equation becomes λ = c/f.