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Calculation of Light Wave

Light Wavelength Formula:

\[ \lambda = \frac{c}{f} \]

Hz

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1. What is Light Wavelength?

Wavelength (λ) is the distance between consecutive crests of a wave, especially points in a sound wave or electromagnetic wave. For light waves, it determines the color of visible light and is inversely proportional to frequency.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the wavelength formula:

\[ \lambda = \frac{c}{f} \]

Where:

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

3. Importance of Wavelength Calculation

Details: Calculating light wavelength is essential in optics, telecommunications, spectroscopy, and understanding electromagnetic radiation properties across different frequencies.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter frequency in hertz (Hz). The value must be valid (frequency > 0). The calculator uses the constant speed of light (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 exactly 299,792,458 m/s, but 3×10^8 m/s is commonly used for calculations and approximations.

Q2: How does wavelength relate to color?
A: In visible light, different wavelengths correspond to different colors: violet (~380-450 nm), blue (~450-495 nm), green (~495-570 nm), yellow (~570-590 nm), orange (~590-620 nm), red (~620-750 nm).

Q3: What are typical frequency ranges for light?
A: Visible light frequencies range from about 430-750 THz (terahertz), corresponding to wavelengths of 400-700 nm.

Q4: Can this formula be used for other waves?
A: Yes, the formula λ = v/f applies to all waves, where v is the wave velocity. For light in vacuum, v = c.

Q5: How accurate is this calculation?
A: The calculation is mathematically exact for the given inputs. Accuracy depends on the precision of the frequency measurement and the medium (the formula assumes vacuum).

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