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Formula For Calculating Wavelength Given Frequency

Wavelength Formula:

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

Hz

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1. What is the Wavelength Formula?

The wavelength formula calculates the wavelength of electromagnetic waves using the speed of light and frequency. It is expressed as λ = c / f, where λ is wavelength, c is the speed of light (3×10⁸ m/s), and f is frequency.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the wavelength formula:

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

Where:

Explanation: The formula shows the inverse relationship between wavelength and frequency - as frequency increases, wavelength decreases, and vice versa.

3. Importance of Wavelength Calculation

Details: Wavelength calculation is essential in physics, telecommunications, optics, and electromagnetic theory. It helps determine wave properties and is crucial for designing communication systems, antennas, and optical devices.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter frequency in Hertz (Hz). The value must be greater than 0. The calculator will compute the corresponding wavelength in meters.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the speed of light constant?
A: The speed of light in vacuum is approximately 3×10⁸ meters per second (299,792,458 m/s exactly).

Q2: How does wavelength relate to frequency?
A: Wavelength and frequency are inversely proportional - higher frequency means shorter wavelength, lower frequency means longer wavelength.

Q3: What are typical wavelength ranges?
A: Radio waves have wavelengths from meters to kilometers, visible light from 380-750 nanometers, and gamma rays have wavelengths smaller than atoms.

Q4: Can this formula be used for sound waves?
A: No, this specific formula uses the speed of light. For sound waves, use λ = v / f where v is the speed of sound in the medium.

Q5: What units should I use?
A: Frequency should be in Hertz (Hz), and the result will be in meters (m). For very high frequencies, the result may be in nanometers or other smaller units.

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