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Wavelength Formula:
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Wavelength (λ) is the distance between consecutive corresponding points of the same phase on a wave, such as crest to crest or trough to trough. It is a fundamental property of waves that determines many of their characteristics.
The calculator uses the wavelength formula:
Where:
Explanation: This formula shows the inverse relationship between wavelength and frequency - as frequency increases, wavelength decreases, and vice versa, when velocity remains constant.
Details: Calculating wavelength is essential in various fields including physics, engineering, telecommunications, and optics. It helps determine wave properties, design communication systems, and understand wave behavior in different media.
Tips: Enter wave velocity in m/s and frequency in Hz. Both values must be positive numbers greater than zero for accurate calculation.
Q1: What is the relationship between wavelength and frequency?
A: Wavelength and frequency have an inverse relationship when wave velocity is constant. Higher frequency means shorter wavelength, and lower frequency means longer wavelength.
Q2: How does medium affect wavelength?
A: When a wave moves from one medium to another, its frequency remains constant but its velocity changes, resulting in a change in wavelength.
Q3: What are typical wavelength ranges?
A: Wavelengths vary greatly - from picometers for gamma rays to kilometers for radio waves. Visible light ranges from about 380 to 750 nanometers.
Q4: Can wavelength be measured directly?
A: Yes, wavelength can be measured using various instruments depending on the type of wave, such as interferometers for light waves or rulers for visible water waves.
Q5: How is wavelength related to energy?
A: For electromagnetic waves, shorter wavelengths correspond to higher energy photons according to the formula E = hc/λ, where h is Planck's constant and c is the speed of light.