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Wavelength-Frequency Equation:
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The wavelength-frequency equation describes the fundamental relationship between the wavelength (λ) of electromagnetic waves, their frequency (f), and the speed of light (c) in a vacuum. This equation is essential in physics, optics, and telecommunications.
The calculator uses the wavelength-frequency equation:
Where:
Explanation: The equation shows that wavelength and frequency are inversely proportional - as frequency increases, wavelength decreases, and vice versa.
Details: Calculating wavelength is crucial for understanding electromagnetic wave properties, designing communication systems, studying light behavior, and various applications in spectroscopy and astronomy.
Tips: Enter frequency in Hertz and speed of light in m/s (default is 300,000,000 m/s for vacuum). All values must be valid (frequency > 0, speed > 0).
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 wavelength affect light properties?
A: Wavelength determines the color of visible light and the energy of photons. Shorter wavelengths have higher energy (e.g., ultraviolet, X-rays).
Q3: What are typical frequency ranges for different applications?
A: Radio waves: 3kHz-300GHz, Microwaves: 300MHz-300GHz, Infrared: 300GHz-430THz, Visible light: 430-750THz, UV: 750THz-30PHz.
Q4: Can this calculator be used for sound waves?
A: While the formula is similar (λ = v/f), sound waves travel at different speeds (≈343 m/s in air) and this calculator is optimized for electromagnetic waves.
Q5: Why is the speed of light constant in vacuum?
A: According to Einstein's theory of relativity, the speed of light in vacuum is constant (c = 299,792,458 m/s) and is the ultimate speed limit in the universe.