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Wavelength Formula:
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Wavelength (λ) is the distance between consecutive crests of a wave, especially points in a sound wave or electromagnetic wave. It is inversely proportional to frequency and directly proportional to the speed of wave propagation.
The calculator uses the wavelength formula:
Where:
Explanation: The equation shows that wavelength decreases as frequency increases, and vice versa, for electromagnetic waves traveling at the speed of light.
Details: Wavelength calculation is essential in various fields including telecommunications, radio broadcasting, optics, and physics research. It helps determine the properties of electromagnetic waves and their interactions with matter.
Tips: Enter frequency in Hertz (Hz). The value must be greater than 0. 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: Why is the speed of light used in this calculation?
A: For electromagnetic waves (including light, radio waves, etc.), the speed of propagation in vacuum is constant at approximately 3×10^8 m/s.
Q3: Can this calculator be used for sound waves?
A: No, this calculator is specifically for electromagnetic waves. For sound waves, you would need to use the speed of sound (approximately 343 m/s in air) instead of the speed of light.
Q4: What are typical wavelength ranges?
A: Wavelengths can range from picometers (gamma rays) to kilometers (radio waves), depending on the frequency of the electromagnetic radiation.
Q5: How accurate is this calculation?
A: The calculation is mathematically exact for electromagnetic waves in vacuum. In other media, the speed of light would be different, affecting the wavelength.