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Wavelength Formula:
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Wavelength (λ) is the distance between successive crests of a wave, especially points in a sound wave or electromagnetic wave. It is a fundamental property of waves and is inversely proportional to frequency.
The calculator uses the wavelength formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula shows that wavelength decreases as frequency increases, and vice versa, for electromagnetic waves traveling at the speed of light.
Details: Wavelength calculation is crucial in various fields including telecommunications, optics, radio broadcasting, 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 valid (frequency > 0). The calculator uses the speed of light constant (3×10⁸ m/s) for calculations.
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: Does this formula work for all types of waves?
A: While the general concept applies to all waves, this specific formula with the speed of light constant applies only to electromagnetic waves in vacuum.
Q3: What are typical wavelength ranges?
A: Wavelengths vary greatly: radio waves (1m-100km), microwaves (1mm-1m), infrared (700nm-1mm), visible light (400-700nm), ultraviolet (10-400nm), X-rays (0.01-10nm), gamma rays (<0.01nm).
Q4: How does medium affect wavelength?
A: When light enters a different medium, its speed changes, which affects wavelength while frequency remains constant.
Q5: Why is the speed of light used in this calculation?
A: For electromagnetic waves, the speed in vacuum is constant at approximately 3×10⁸ m/s, making it the standard reference for wavelength calculations.