Wavelength in Substrate Formula:
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Wavelength in substrate refers to the effective wavelength of an electromagnetic wave when it propagates through a dielectric material. It's shorter than the wavelength in free space due to the material's permittivity.
The calculator uses the wavelength in substrate formula:
Where:
Explanation: The wavelength decreases in dielectric materials because the wave propagates slower than in vacuum, with the reduction factor being the square root of the relative permittivity.
Details: Calculating wavelength in substrate is crucial for designing microwave circuits, antennas, and transmission lines where signals propagate through dielectric materials. It helps determine appropriate dimensions for circuit elements.
Tips: Enter frequency in Hz and relative permittivity (a dimensionless value typically between 1-100 for most dielectric materials). Both values must be positive numbers.
Q1: Why does wavelength decrease in dielectric materials?
A: The wave propagates slower in dielectric materials due to interaction with the material's electric dipoles, resulting in a shorter wavelength for the same frequency.
Q2: What is typical relative permittivity values?
A: Air: ~1, FR-4 PCB material: ~4.5, Rogers materials: 2.2-10.2, Silicon: ~11.7, Water: ~80 at room temperature.
Q3: How does this relate to guided wavelength?
A: Wavelength in substrate is a fundamental parameter that affects guided wavelength in transmission lines, which also depends on the transmission line geometry.
Q4: Can this formula be used for optical frequencies?
A: Yes, the formula applies across the electromagnetic spectrum, though at optical frequencies, material dispersion becomes more significant.
Q5: How accurate is this calculation?
A: The calculation is mathematically exact for lossless, non-dispersive materials. Real materials may have frequency-dependent permittivity and losses.