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Wavelength to Frequency Formula:
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The wavelength to frequency formula calculates the frequency of a wave from its wavelength using the relationship between wave speed, frequency, and wavelength. This fundamental physics equation is essential in various fields including optics, acoustics, and electromagnetic theory.
The calculator uses the wavelength to frequency formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula demonstrates the inverse relationship between wavelength and frequency - as wavelength increases, frequency decreases, and vice versa, while the speed of light remains constant.
Details: Accurate frequency calculation is crucial for designing communication systems, analyzing wave properties, understanding electromagnetic spectrum allocation, and various applications in physics and engineering.
Tips: Enter wavelength in meters. The value must be valid (wavelength > 0). The calculator uses the speed of light constant (3×10⁸ m/s) for electromagnetic waves.
Q1: What is the speed of light constant used in the formula?
A: The calculator uses c = 3×10⁸ m/s, which is the speed of light in vacuum. This value is approximately 299,792,458 m/s.
Q2: Can this formula be used for sound waves?
A: Yes, but the speed constant would be different. For sound waves, use the speed of sound (approximately 343 m/s in air at 20°C) instead of the speed of light.
Q3: What are typical wavelength values for visible light?
A: Visible light wavelengths range from approximately 380 nm (violet) to 750 nm (red), which is 3.8×10⁻⁷ m to 7.5×10⁻⁷ m.
Q4: How does wavelength relate to energy?
A: Shorter wavelengths correspond to higher frequencies and higher energy photons, according to the Planck-Einstein relation E = hf.
Q5: What if I need to calculate for other wave types?
A: For mechanical waves or waves in different media, replace the speed of light with the appropriate wave speed for that medium.