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Wavelength-Frequency Equation:
Where:
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The wavelength-frequency relationship describes how these two properties of waves are inversely related through the wave's speed. For electromagnetic waves, the speed is the speed of light (c = 3×10^8 m/s).
The calculator uses the wavelength equation:
Where:
Explanation: As frequency increases, wavelength decreases proportionally, and vice versa, while the speed remains constant.
Details: Calculating wavelength is essential in various fields including telecommunications, radio broadcasting, optics, and astronomy. It helps in designing antennas, optical systems, and understanding electromagnetic spectrum allocation.
Tips: Enter frequency in Hertz (Hz). The value must be greater than 0. The calculator will compute the corresponding wavelength in meters.
Q1: Can this calculator be used for sound waves?
A: While the formula is similar, sound waves travel at different speeds depending on the medium. For sound, you would need to use the speed of sound in that specific medium instead of the speed of light.
Q2: What is the relationship between wavelength and energy?
A: For electromagnetic waves, shorter wavelengths correspond to higher energy photons according to the formula E = hc/λ, where h is Planck's constant.
Q3: How does wavelength affect signal propagation?
A: Longer wavelengths generally travel farther and penetrate obstacles better, while shorter wavelengths carry more data but have shorter range and poorer penetration.
Q4: What are typical wavelength ranges?
A: Radio waves can be kilometers long, visible light wavelengths are around 400-700 nanometers, and gamma rays have wavelengths smaller than atoms.
Q5: Why is the speed of light constant?
A: According to Einstein's theory of relativity, the speed of light in vacuum is constant for all observers, regardless of their relative motion.