Home Back

Wavelength Calculator Speed Of Light Equation

Wavelength Equation:

\[ \lambda = \frac{c}{f} \]

Hz

Unit Converter ▲

Unit Converter ▼

From: To:

1. What is the Wavelength Equation?

The wavelength equation calculates the distance between successive crests of a wave, given by λ = c / f, where λ is wavelength, c is the speed of light (3×10^8 m/s), and f is frequency.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the wavelength equation:

\[ \lambda = \frac{c}{f} \]

Where:

Explanation: The equation shows the inverse relationship between wavelength and frequency - as frequency increases, wavelength decreases.

3. Importance of Wavelength Calculation

Details: Wavelength calculation is essential in physics, telecommunications, optics, and electromagnetic theory for understanding wave properties and designing wave-based systems.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter frequency in Hertz (Hz). The value must be valid (frequency > 0).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the speed of light in different media?
A: The speed of light varies in different media. 3×10^8 m/s is the speed in vacuum. In other media, it's slower due to the refractive index.

Q2: How does wavelength relate to energy?
A: Energy is inversely proportional to wavelength (E = hc/λ), where h is Planck's constant. Shorter wavelengths have higher energy.

Q3: What are typical wavelength ranges?
A: Radio waves: 1mm-100km, Microwaves: 1mm-1m, Infrared: 700nm-1mm, Visible light: 380-750nm, UV: 10-380nm, X-rays: 0.01-10nm, Gamma rays: <0.01nm.

Q4: Can this equation be used for sound waves?
A: Yes, but with different speed constant. For sound waves: λ = v/f, where v is the speed of sound in the medium (≈343 m/s in air at 20°C).

Q5: What are practical applications of wavelength calculation?
A: Antenna design, optical fiber communications, spectroscopy, radio broadcasting, medical imaging, and many other technologies rely on wavelength calculations.

Wavelength Calculator Speed Of Light Equation© - All Rights Reserved 2025