1. What is the Wavelength Formula?

The wavelength formula λ = c / f calculates the wavelength of electromagnetic waves, where λ is wavelength, c is the speed of light (3×10^8 m/s), and f is frequency. This fundamental physics equation relates the physical length of a wave to its frequency.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the wavelength formula:

Where:

• \( \lambda \) — Wavelength (meters)
• \( c \) — Speed of light (3×10^8 m/s)
• \( f \) — Frequency (Hz)

Explanation: The formula shows that wavelength is inversely proportional to frequency - higher frequencies result in shorter wavelengths, and vice versa.

3. Importance of Wavelength Calculation

Details: Calculating wavelength is essential in various fields including telecommunications, optics, astronomy, and electromagnetic spectrum analysis. It helps determine wave properties and behavior in different media.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter frequency in Hertz (Hz). The value must be positive and greater than zero. The calculator will automatically use the speed of light constant (3×10^8 m/s).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the speed of light constant?
A: The speed of light in vacuum is exactly 299,792,458 m/s, but is commonly approximated as 3×10^8 m/s for calculations.

Q2: Does this formula work for all types of waves?
A: This specific formula applies to electromagnetic waves. For other wave types (sound, water waves), the speed would be different.

Q3: What are typical frequency ranges?
A: Radio waves: 3 kHz-300 GHz, Microwaves: 300 MHz-300 GHz, Visible light: 400-790 THz, X-rays: 30 PHz-30 EHz.

Q4: How does medium affect wavelength?
A: While frequency remains constant, wavelength changes in different media as the speed of light decreases in denser materials.

Q5: Can I calculate frequency from wavelength?
A: Yes, the formula can be rearranged as f = c / λ to calculate frequency from a known wavelength.