Wavelength Equation:
From: | To: |
The wavelength equation (λ = v / f) describes the relationship between the wavelength (λ) of a wave, its velocity (v), and its frequency (f). This fundamental physics equation applies to all types of waves including sound waves, light waves, and water waves.
The calculator uses the wavelength equation:
Where:
Explanation: The equation shows that wavelength is inversely proportional to frequency - higher frequency waves have shorter wavelengths when velocity is constant.
Details: Calculating wavelength is essential in various fields including telecommunications, acoustics, optics, and radio astronomy. It helps determine wave properties and behavior in different media.
Tips: Enter velocity in meters per second and frequency in Hertz. Both values must be positive numbers greater than zero for accurate calculation.
Q1: What units should I use for the calculation?
A: Use meters per second (m/s) for velocity and Hertz (Hz) for frequency to get wavelength in meters (m).
Q2: Does this equation work for all types of waves?
A: Yes, the equation λ = v / f applies to all wave types including electromagnetic waves, sound waves, and mechanical waves.
Q3: How does wavelength relate to wave energy?
A: For electromagnetic waves, shorter wavelengths correspond to higher energy photons (E = hc/λ, where h is Planck's constant).
Q4: What is the speed of light constant?
A: For electromagnetic waves in vacuum, velocity is constant at approximately 3.00 × 10⁸ m/s, making wavelength solely dependent on frequency.
Q5: Can I calculate frequency from wavelength?
A: Yes, you can rearrange the equation to f = v / λ to calculate frequency when wavelength and velocity are known.