1. What is the Wavelength Equation?

The wavelength equation (λ = c / f) relates the wavelength of an electromagnetic wave to its frequency and the speed of light. This fundamental physics equation is used across various fields including optics, radio communications, and quantum mechanics.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the wavelength equation:

Where:

• \( \lambda \) — Wavelength (meters)
• \( c \) — Speed of light (3×10^8 m/s)
• \( f \) — Frequency (Hz)

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

3. Importance of Wavelength Calculation

Details: Calculating wavelength is essential for designing communication systems, understanding light behavior, analyzing electromagnetic spectra, and working with various wave phenomena in physics and engineering.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter frequency in Hertz (Hz). The value must be positive and greater than zero. The calculator will automatically use the speed of light constant (3×10^8 m/s).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the speed of light constant?
A: The speed of light in vacuum is approximately 299,792,458 m/s, often rounded to 3×10^8 m/s for calculations.

Q2: Can this equation be used for sound waves?
A: No, this specific equation is for electromagnetic waves. For sound waves, use λ = v / f, where v is the speed of sound in the medium.

Q3: What are typical wavelength ranges?
A: Radio waves: 1mm-100km, Microwaves: 1mm-1m, Infrared: 700nm-1mm, Visible light: 380-750nm, UV: 10-380nm, X-rays: 0.01-10nm, Gamma rays: <0.01nm.

Q4: How does wavelength relate to energy?
A: For photons, energy E = hc/λ, where h is Planck's constant. Shorter wavelengths correspond to higher energy photons.

Q5: What if I need to calculate frequency from wavelength?
A: Rearrange the equation: f = c / λ. Use the same speed of light constant.