Wavelength Formula:
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The wavelength formula (λ = v / f) calculates the wavelength of a wave by dividing its speed (v) by its frequency (f). This fundamental physics equation is used across various fields including acoustics, optics, and electromagnetics.
The calculator uses the wavelength formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula shows the inverse relationship between wavelength and frequency - as frequency increases, wavelength decreases, assuming constant speed.
Details: Calculating wavelength is essential in designing communication systems, analyzing sound waves, studying light properties, and understanding wave behavior in various media.
Tips: Enter the wave speed in meters per second and frequency in Hertz. Both values must be positive numbers greater than zero.
Q1: What units should I use for the inputs?
A: Speed should be in meters per second (m/s) and frequency in Hertz (Hz) for the result to be in meters (m).
Q2: Does this formula work for all types of waves?
A: Yes, this universal wave equation applies to all wave types including sound, light, and water waves.
Q3: What if the wave is in a different medium?
A: The formula still applies, but remember that wave speed changes in different media, which affects the wavelength.
Q4: How does temperature affect wavelength calculations?
A: Temperature affects wave speed in many media (especially sound in air), which consequently affects wavelength for a given frequency.
Q5: Can I calculate frequency if I know wavelength and speed?
A: Yes, you can rearrange the formula to f = v / λ to calculate frequency from known wavelength and speed values.