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Wavelength Equation:
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The wavelength equation (λ = c / f) calculates the wavelength of an electromagnetic wave based on its frequency and the speed of light. This fundamental physics equation is essential in fields such as optics, telecommunications, and radio frequency engineering.
The calculator uses the wavelength equation:
Where:
Explanation: The equation shows the inverse relationship between wavelength and frequency - higher frequencies result in shorter wavelengths, and vice versa.
Details: Accurate wavelength calculation is crucial for antenna design, optical system development, wireless communication planning, and understanding electromagnetic wave propagation through different media.
Tips: Enter frequency in Hertz and speed of light in m/s (default is 300,000,000 m/s for vacuum). For other media, adjust the speed value accordingly. All values must be positive.
Q1: What is the speed of light in different media?
A: The speed of light varies in different materials. In vacuum it's 3×10^8 m/s, in air it's slightly less, and in water/glass it's significantly reduced due to refractive index.
Q2: How does wavelength relate to energy?
A: Shorter wavelengths correspond to higher energy photons (E = hc/λ), which is why ultraviolet light has more energy than infrared light.
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: Why is wavelength important in antenna design?
A: Antenna size and design are typically proportional to wavelength. Optimal antenna length is often half or quarter of the wavelength for efficient radiation.
Q5: How does wavelength affect signal propagation?
A: Longer wavelengths (lower frequencies) generally travel farther and penetrate obstacles better, while shorter wavelengths (higher frequencies) offer higher data capacity but have shorter range.