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Wavelength Formula:
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Wavelength (λ) is the distance between successive crests of a wave, especially points in a sound wave or electromagnetic wave. It is inversely proportional to frequency and is a fundamental property of wave phenomena.
The calculator uses the wavelength formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula shows that wavelength decreases as frequency increases, and vice versa, for electromagnetic waves traveling at the speed of light.
Details: Wavelength calculation is essential in various fields including telecommunications, radio broadcasting, optics, and physics research. It helps determine the properties of electromagnetic waves and their interactions with matter.
Tips: Enter frequency in Hertz (Hz). The value must be positive and greater than zero. The calculator will compute the corresponding wavelength in meters.
Q1: What is the relationship between frequency and wavelength?
A: Frequency and wavelength are inversely proportional. As frequency increases, wavelength decreases, and vice versa, when the wave speed is constant.
Q2: Why is the speed of light used in this calculation?
A: For electromagnetic waves (including light, radio waves, etc.), the speed of propagation in vacuum is constant at approximately 3 × 10⁸ m/s.
Q3: Can this formula be used for sound waves?
A: No, for sound waves you would use λ = v/f, where v is the speed of sound in the specific medium (approximately 343 m/s in air at 20°C).
Q4: 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.
Q5: How does wavelength affect wave behavior?
A: Wavelength determines how waves interact with objects. Longer wavelengths diffract around obstacles more easily, while shorter wavelengths provide better resolution in imaging systems.