1. What is the Wavelength and Frequency Equation?

The wavelength and 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 fundamental in wave physics and electromagnetic theory.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the wavelength equation:

Where:

• \( \lambda \) — Wavelength (meters)
• \( c \) — Speed of light (3×10⁸ m/s in vacuum)
• \( f \) — Frequency (Hertz)

Explanation: The equation shows that wavelength is inversely proportional to frequency - higher frequency waves have shorter wavelengths, and vice versa.

3. Importance of Wavelength Calculation

Details: Calculating wavelength is crucial for understanding wave behavior, designing communication systems, analyzing electromagnetic spectra, and various applications in physics and engineering.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter frequency in Hertz and speed of light in m/s (default is 300,000,000 m/s for vacuum). All values must be valid (frequency > 0, speed > 0).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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, glass, and other materials due to refractive index.

Q2: How does wavelength relate to energy?
A: For electromagnetic waves, shorter wavelengths correspond to higher energy photons according to 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: 380-750nm, UV: 10-380nm, X-rays: 0.01-10nm, Gamma rays: <0.01nm.

Q4: Can this equation be used for sound waves?
A: Yes, the same principle applies to sound waves, but use the speed of sound (approximately 343 m/s in air at 20°C) instead of the speed of light.

Q5: What if the wave is not electromagnetic?
A: The equation λ = v/f applies to all wave types, where v is the wave speed specific to that medium and wave type.