Home
Back
Wavelength Formula:
| From: | To: |
Wavelength (λ) is the distance between successive crests of a wave, especially points in a sound wave or electromagnetic wave. For sound waves, it represents the physical length of one complete cycle of the wave.
The calculator uses the wavelength formula:
Where:
Explanation: The wavelength is calculated by dividing the speed of sound by the frequency of the wave. Higher frequencies result in shorter wavelengths, while lower frequencies produce longer wavelengths.
Details: Calculating wavelength is essential in various fields including acoustics, audio engineering, telecommunications, and physics. It helps in designing acoustic spaces, audio equipment, and understanding wave behavior in different media.
Tips: Enter the speed of sound in m/s (typically 343 m/s in air at 20°C) and frequency in Hz. Both values must be positive numbers greater than zero.
Q1: What is the typical speed of sound in air?
A: The speed of sound in air is approximately 343 meters per second at 20°C (68°F), but it varies with temperature, humidity, and altitude.
Q2: How does temperature affect the speed of sound?
A: The speed of sound increases with temperature. For air, it increases by about 0.6 m/s for each degree Celsius increase in temperature.
Q3: What is the relationship between frequency and wavelength?
A: Frequency and wavelength are inversely proportional. As frequency increases, wavelength decreases, and vice versa, when the speed of sound remains constant.
Q4: Can this calculator be used for light waves?
A: While the formula is similar (λ = c/f, where c is speed of light), this calculator is specifically designed for sound waves. For light waves, use the speed of light (299,792,458 m/s) instead.
Q5: What are typical wavelength ranges for sound?
A: For human hearing (20 Hz to 20,000 Hz) in air, wavelengths range from about 17 meters (20 Hz) to 1.7 centimeters (20,000 Hz).