Frequency Formula:
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The frequency formula calculates the frequency of a wave from its wavelength and the speed of light. The relationship is given by the equation f = c / λ, where f is frequency, c is the speed of light, and λ is wavelength.
The calculator uses the frequency formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula shows that frequency is inversely proportional to wavelength - as wavelength increases, frequency decreases, and vice versa.
Details: Calculating frequency from wavelength is essential in physics, engineering, telecommunications, and various scientific applications involving wave phenomena, electromagnetic radiation, and signal processing.
Tips: Enter wavelength in meters and the speed of light in m/s (default is 300,000,000 m/s). All values must be valid (wavelength > 0, speed > 0).
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 f = v / λ works for any wave, where v is the wave speed. For electromagnetic waves, v = c.
Q3: What are typical frequency ranges?
A: Radio waves: 3 kHz-300 GHz, Microwaves: 300 MHz-300 GHz, Visible light: 400-790 THz, X-rays: 30 PHz-30 EHz.
Q4: How does wavelength relate to energy?
A: Energy is proportional to frequency (E = hf), so shorter wavelengths (higher frequency) correspond to higher energy radiation.
Q5: What units should I use for wavelength?
A: Meters are the SI unit, but you can use any length unit as long as you're consistent (nm, μm, cm, etc.).