Home
Back
Wavelength to Frequency Equation:
| From: | To: |
The wavelength to frequency equation calculates the frequency of an electromagnetic wave from its wavelength, using the speed of light as a constant. This fundamental relationship is crucial in physics, engineering, and telecommunications.
The calculator uses the wavelength to frequency equation:
Where:
Explanation: This equation demonstrates the inverse relationship between wavelength and frequency - as wavelength increases, frequency decreases, and vice versa.
Details: Calculating frequency from wavelength is essential in designing communication systems, analyzing electromagnetic spectra, and understanding wave behavior in various media.
Tips: Enter wavelength in meters. The value must be greater than zero. The calculator will automatically compute the corresponding frequency using the speed of light constant.
Q1: Why is the speed of light constant in this equation?
A: The speed of light in a vacuum is a fundamental physical constant (approximately 3×10⁸ m/s) that relates the frequency and wavelength of all electromagnetic radiation.
Q2: Can this equation be used for other types of waves?
A: Yes, the general form v = fλ applies to all waves, where v is the wave velocity. For electromagnetic waves in vacuum, v equals c.
Q3: What are typical wavelength values for visible light?
A: Visible light wavelengths range from approximately 380 nm (violet) to 750 nm (red), which correspond to frequencies of about 790 THz to 400 THz.
Q4: How does medium affect the calculation?
A: In different media, the speed of light changes, so you would need to use the appropriate speed for that medium rather than the vacuum speed.
Q5: What if I have wavelength in different units?
A: Convert your wavelength to meters before using this calculator, as the speed of light is in m/s.