Wavelength Equation:
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The wavelength equation relates the wavelength of a wave to its frequency and the speed of propagation. For electromagnetic waves, the speed is the speed of light in vacuum (c = 3×10^8 m/s).
The calculator uses the wavelength equation:
Where:
Explanation: This fundamental equation shows the inverse relationship between wavelength and frequency - as frequency increases, wavelength decreases, and vice versa.
Details: Wavelength calculation 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 positive and greater than zero. The calculator will compute the corresponding wavelength in meters.
Q1: What is the relationship between wavelength and frequency?
A: Wavelength and frequency are inversely proportional. As frequency increases, wavelength decreases, and vice versa, when the wave speed is constant.
Q2: Does this equation work for all types of waves?
A: The general form λ = v/f works for all waves, where v is the wave speed. For electromagnetic waves in vacuum, v = c (speed of light).
Q3: What are typical wavelength ranges?
A: Wavelengths vary greatly - from kilometers for radio waves to nanometers for visible light and picometers for gamma rays.
Q4: How does medium affect wavelength?
A: When waves enter a different medium, their speed changes, which affects wavelength while frequency remains constant.
Q5: Why is the speed of light constant in vacuum?
A: The speed of light in vacuum is a fundamental constant of nature (approximately 299,792,458 m/s) and is the same for all observers regardless of their motion.