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Wavelength Formula:
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Wavelength calculation determines the distance between consecutive corresponding points of the same phase on a wave, such as crest-to-crest or trough-to-trough, using the relationship between wave speed and frequency.
The calculator uses the wavelength formula:
Where:
Explanation: This fundamental equation relates the three key properties of electromagnetic waves, showing that wavelength is inversely proportional to frequency when speed is constant.
Details: Accurate wavelength calculation is essential in fields like telecommunications, optics, astronomy, and spectroscopy for designing systems, analyzing signals, and understanding electromagnetic radiation properties.
Tips: Enter frequency in Hertz (Hz) and speed of light in meters per second (m/s). The default speed value is set to 300,000,000 m/s (3×10⁸ m/s) for calculations in vacuum.
Q1: What is the speed of light in different media?
A: The speed of light varies in different media. In vacuum it's 3×10⁸ m/s, but it slows down in materials like water (2.25×10⁸ m/s) or glass (2×10⁸ m/s).
Q2: How does frequency affect wavelength?
A: Wavelength and frequency have an inverse relationship. Higher frequency waves have shorter wavelengths, while lower frequency waves have longer wavelengths.
Q3: What are typical wavelength ranges?
A: Radio waves can be kilometers long, visible light ranges 380-750 nm, while gamma rays have wavelengths smaller than atoms.
Q4: Can this formula be used for sound waves?
A: Yes, the same formula applies to sound waves, but with the speed of sound (approximately 343 m/s in air) instead of light speed.
Q5: Why is wavelength important in communication?
A: Wavelength determines antenna size, signal propagation characteristics, and helps avoid interference between different communication systems.