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Wavelength Formula:
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Wavelength (λ) is the distance between successive crests of a wave, especially points in a sound wave or electromagnetic wave. It is inversely proportional to frequency, with the speed of light as the constant of proportionality.
The calculator uses the wavelength formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula shows that as frequency increases, wavelength decreases, and vice versa, with the speed of light remaining constant.
Details: Calculating wavelength is essential in various fields including telecommunications, optics, astronomy, and physics. It helps determine the properties of electromagnetic waves and their interactions with matter.
Tips: Enter frequency in Hertz (Hz). The value must be valid (frequency > 0). The calculator will automatically compute the wavelength in meters.
Q1: What is the relationship between frequency and wavelength?
A: Frequency and wavelength have an inverse relationship. As frequency increases, wavelength decreases, and vice versa, with the speed of light remaining constant.
Q2: What is the speed of light value used in calculations?
A: The calculator uses 3×10^8 m/s (299,792,458 m/s approximately), which is the speed of light in a vacuum.
Q3: 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 (approximately 343 m/s in air) instead of the speed of light.
Q4: What are common units for wavelength?
A: While meters are the SI unit, wavelengths are often expressed in nanometers (nm) for light waves or meters/centimeters for radio waves, depending on the application.
Q5: Why is wavelength important in everyday technology?
A: Wavelength determines many properties of electromagnetic waves, including what materials they can penetrate, how they interact with objects, and their applications in technologies like WiFi, radio, microwave ovens, and medical imaging.