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Wavelength Equation:
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The wavelength equation (λ = v / f) describes the relationship between the wavelength (λ) of a wave, its velocity (v), and its frequency (f). This fundamental physics equation applies to all types of waves including sound, light, and electromagnetic waves.
The calculator uses the wavelength equation:
Where:
Explanation: The equation shows that wavelength is inversely proportional to frequency - as frequency increases, wavelength decreases, and vice versa.
Details: Calculating wavelength is essential in various fields including telecommunications, audio engineering, optics, and astronomy. It helps in designing antennas, musical instruments, optical devices, and understanding electromagnetic spectrum properties.
Tips: Enter velocity in meters per second and frequency in Hertz. Both values must be positive numbers. For electromagnetic waves in vacuum, use the speed of light (299,792,458 m/s) as the velocity.
Q1: What is the relationship between frequency and wavelength?
A: Frequency and wavelength have an inverse relationship. When frequency increases, wavelength decreases, and vice versa, assuming constant velocity.
Q2: How does medium affect wave velocity?
A: Wave velocity changes in different media. For example, sound travels faster in water than in air, while light travels slower in water than in vacuum.
Q3: What is the speed of light in vacuum?
A: The speed of light in vacuum is exactly 299,792,458 meters per second, which is often approximated as 3×10⁸ m/s for calculations.
Q4: Can this equation be used for all wave types?
A: Yes, the equation λ = v / f applies to all wave types including mechanical waves (sound, water waves) and electromagnetic waves (light, radio waves).
Q5: How is wavelength related to energy?
A: For electromagnetic waves, shorter wavelengths correspond to higher energy photons. This is described by the equation E = hc/λ, where h is Planck's constant and c is the speed of light.