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Frequency Vs Wavelength Formula

Frequency-Wavelength Formula:

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

m/s
m

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1. What is the Frequency-Wavelength Formula?

The frequency-wavelength formula describes the relationship between the frequency and wavelength of electromagnetic waves. It states that frequency (f) equals the speed of light (c) divided by wavelength (λ).

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the frequency-wavelength formula:

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

Where:

Explanation: This fundamental equation shows that frequency and wavelength are inversely proportional - as wavelength increases, frequency decreases, and vice versa.

3. Importance of Frequency Calculation

Details: Calculating frequency from wavelength is essential in various fields including telecommunications, optics, radio astronomy, and electromagnetic spectrum analysis.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the speed of light in m/s (default is 300,000,000 m/s) and wavelength in meters. Both values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the standard speed of light value?
A: The speed of light in vacuum is exactly 299,792,458 m/s, but 3×10⁸ m/s is commonly used for calculations.

Q2: Can this formula be used for other waves besides light?
A: Yes, the formula applies to all electromagnetic waves, including radio waves, microwaves, infrared, visible light, ultraviolet, X-rays, and gamma rays.

Q3: What are typical wavelength ranges?
A: Wavelengths range from picometers (gamma rays) to kilometers (radio waves), with visible light between 380-750 nanometers.

Q4: How does medium affect the calculation?
A: The speed of light changes in different media, so the appropriate speed for that medium should be used in the calculation.

Q5: What if I have frequency and need wavelength?
A: The formula can be rearranged as λ = c/f to calculate wavelength from frequency.

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