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Light Wavelength to Frequency Formula:
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The light wavelength to frequency formula calculates the frequency of electromagnetic waves from their wavelength using the speed of light constant. It's a fundamental relationship in physics and optics.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: This formula demonstrates the inverse relationship between wavelength and frequency - as wavelength increases, frequency decreases, and vice versa.
Details: Calculating frequency from wavelength is essential in various fields including telecommunications, spectroscopy, astronomy, and optical engineering. It helps determine the energy and properties of electromagnetic waves.
Tips: Enter the wavelength in meters. The value must be positive and greater than zero. The calculator will automatically compute the corresponding frequency using the speed of light constant.
Q1: Why is the speed of light constant important in this calculation?
A: The speed of light is a fundamental constant of nature (c = 3×10⁸ m/s) that relates the wavelength and frequency of all electromagnetic radiation in vacuum.
Q2: Can this formula be used for all types of electromagnetic waves?
A: Yes, this formula applies to all electromagnetic radiation including radio waves, microwaves, infrared, visible light, ultraviolet, X-rays, and gamma rays.
Q3: What are typical wavelength ranges for visible light?
A: Visible light wavelengths range from approximately 380 nm (violet) to 750 nm (red), which corresponds to frequencies of about 400-790 THz.
Q4: How does the medium affect this calculation?
A: The formula uses the speed of light in vacuum. In other media, the speed of light decreases, so the relationship becomes f = v/λ where v is the speed in that medium.
Q5: What are common units for wavelength measurements?
A: Common units include meters (m), nanometers (nm), micrometers (μm), and angstroms (Å). The calculator requires input in meters for accurate results.