Wavelength Equation:
From: | To: |
The wavelength equation calculates the wavelength of electromagnetic radiation from its energy using Planck's constant and the speed of light. This is fundamental in spectroscopy and quantum mechanics.
The calculator uses the wavelength equation:
Where:
Explanation: This equation demonstrates the inverse relationship between the energy of a photon and its wavelength - higher energy photons have shorter wavelengths.
Details: Calculating wavelength from energy is essential in spectroscopy, quantum physics, and understanding electromagnetic radiation across different regions of the spectrum.
Tips: Enter the energy value in joules. The calculator will compute the corresponding wavelength in meters using the fundamental constants.
Q1: What is Planck's constant?
A: Planck's constant (h) is a fundamental physical constant that relates the energy of a photon to its frequency, with a value of approximately 6.626 × 10⁻³⁴ J s.
Q2: Can I use different units for energy?
A: The calculator requires energy in joules. For electronvolts (eV), convert to joules first (1 eV = 1.602 × 10⁻¹⁹ J).
Q3: What is the relationship between wavelength and energy?
A: Wavelength and energy have an inverse relationship - as energy increases, wavelength decreases, and vice versa.
Q4: What are typical wavelength values?
A: Wavelengths vary greatly: gamma rays (10⁻¹² m), visible light (400-700 nm), radio waves (1 mm to 100 km).
Q5: Why is the speed of light constant?
A: The speed of light in vacuum (c) is a fundamental constant of nature, approximately 3 × 10⁸ m/s, and is the same for all observers regardless of their motion.