Wavelength and Frequency Formula:
From: | To: |
The wavelength and frequency formula describes the relationship between the wavelength (λ) of a wave, its frequency (f), and the speed of propagation (c). For electromagnetic waves in vacuum, the speed of light is constant at 3×10^8 m/s.
The calculator uses the wavelength formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula shows that wavelength is inversely proportional to frequency - higher frequency waves have shorter wavelengths, and vice versa.
Details: Calculating wavelength is essential in various fields including telecommunications, optics, radio astronomy, and electromagnetic spectrum analysis. It helps determine wave properties and behavior in different media.
Tips: Enter frequency in Hertz (Hz). The value must be greater than 0. The calculator will compute the corresponding wavelength in meters using the speed of light constant.
Q1: What is the speed of light in different media?
A: The speed of light varies in different media. In vacuum it's 3×10^8 m/s, but it slows down in materials like water, glass, or air.
Q2: Can this formula be used for sound waves?
A: Yes, but with a different speed constant. For sound waves, use the speed of sound in the specific medium instead of the speed of light.
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 affect wave behavior?
A: Longer wavelengths diffract more easily and penetrate obstacles better, while shorter wavelengths provide better resolution in imaging.
Q5: What is the relationship with energy?
A: For electromagnetic waves, energy is directly proportional to frequency and inversely proportional to wavelength (E = hf = hc/λ).