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Wavelength and Frequency Formula:
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The wavelength and frequency formula describes the fundamental relationship between these two properties of waves. The formula λ = c / f shows that wavelength is inversely proportional to frequency, where c is the speed of light in a vacuum (3×10^8 m/s).
The calculator uses the wavelength formula:
Where:
Explanation: This formula demonstrates that as frequency increases, wavelength decreases, and vice versa, maintaining a constant product equal to the speed of light.
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 automatically compute the corresponding wavelength in meters.
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 in water it's approximately 2.25×10^8 m/s, and in glass about 2×10^8 m/s.
Q2: How does wavelength relate to energy?
A: Energy is inversely proportional to wavelength (E = hc/λ), meaning shorter wavelengths correspond to higher energy electromagnetic radiation.
Q3: What are typical wavelength ranges?
A: Radio waves have wavelengths from meters to kilometers, visible light from 380-750 nm, and gamma rays have wavelengths smaller than atoms.
Q4: Can this formula be used for sound waves?
A: Yes, but with c representing the speed of sound (approximately 343 m/s in air) instead of the speed of light.
Q5: Why is the speed of light constant?
A: According to Einstein's theory of relativity, the speed of light in vacuum is constant for all observers, regardless of their relative motion.