Wavelength Formula:
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The wavelength formula calculates the distance between consecutive crests of a wave. For electromagnetic waves, it relates frequency to wavelength through the speed of light.
The calculator uses the wavelength formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula shows that wavelength is inversely proportional to frequency - higher frequencies have shorter wavelengths.
Details: Calculating wavelength is essential in fields like telecommunications, radio broadcasting, optics, and astronomy. It helps determine the properties of electromagnetic waves and their interactions with matter.
Tips: Enter frequency in Hertz (Hz). The value must be greater than 0. The calculator will output the corresponding wavelength in meters.
Q1: What is the speed of light constant?
A: The speed of light in vacuum is exactly 299,792,458 m/s, but is commonly approximated as 3×10^8 m/s for calculations.
Q2: Can this calculator be used for sound waves?
A: No, this calculator is specifically for electromagnetic waves. For sound waves, you would need to use the speed of sound instead of the speed of light.
Q3: What are typical wavelength ranges?
A: Radio waves have wavelengths from millimeters to kilometers, visible light from 380-750 nanometers, and gamma rays have wavelengths smaller than atoms.
Q4: How does wavelength relate to energy?
A: Shorter wavelengths correspond to higher energy photons according to the formula E = hc/λ, where h is Planck's constant.
Q5: Can I calculate frequency from wavelength?
A: Yes, you can rearrange the formula to f = c/λ to calculate frequency from wavelength.