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Wavelength-Frequency Equation:
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The wavelength-frequency equation describes the fundamental relationship between the wavelength (λ) of a wave, its frequency (f), and the speed of propagation (c). This equation is essential in physics, particularly in wave mechanics and electromagnetic theory.
The calculator uses the wavelength-frequency equation:
Where:
Explanation: The equation shows that wavelength is inversely proportional to frequency - higher frequency waves have shorter wavelengths, and vice versa.
Details: Calculating wavelength is crucial for understanding wave behavior, designing communication systems, studying electromagnetic spectrum properties, and analyzing wave phenomena in various physical contexts.
Tips: Enter frequency in Hertz (Hz) and speed of light in meters per second (m/s). The default speed value is set to 300,000,000 m/s (speed of light in vacuum). All values must be positive numbers.
Q1: What is the speed of light in different media?
A: The speed of light varies in different media. In vacuum it's 3×10⁸ m/s, but it's slower in water (~2.25×10⁸ m/s) and glass (~2×10⁸ m/s).
Q2: How does wavelength relate to energy?
A: For electromagnetic waves, energy is inversely proportional to wavelength (E = hc/λ), where h is Planck's constant.
Q3: What are typical wavelength ranges?
A: Radio waves: 1mm-100km, Microwaves: 1mm-1m, Infrared: 700nm-1mm, Visible light: 400-700nm, UV: 10-400nm, X-rays: 0.01-10nm, Gamma rays: <0.01nm.
Q4: Can this equation be used for sound waves?
A: Yes, but replace c with the speed of sound (approximately 343 m/s in air at 20°C) instead of the speed of light.
Q5: What happens if frequency is zero?
A: The equation becomes undefined at zero frequency, which makes physical sense as a wave cannot exist without oscillation.