Home
Back
Wavelength Formula:
| From: | To: |
The wavelength calculation determines the distance between consecutive points of a wave that are in phase. For electromagnetic waves, it's calculated using the speed of light and frequency.
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.
Details: Wavelength calculation is essential in various fields including telecommunications, radio broadcasting, optics, and astronomy. It helps determine signal propagation, antenna design, and light behavior.
Tips: Enter the frequency value in hertz (Hz). The value must be greater than 0. The calculator will automatically compute the wavelength using the speed of light constant.
Q1: What is the relationship between frequency and wavelength?
A: Frequency and wavelength have an inverse relationship. As frequency increases, wavelength decreases, and vice versa, when the wave speed is constant.
Q2: Why is the speed of light used in this calculation?
A: For electromagnetic waves (including light, radio waves, etc.), the speed of propagation in vacuum is constant at approximately 3×10^8 m/s.
Q3: Can this formula be used for sound waves?
A: No, for sound waves you would use λ = v/f, where v is the speed of sound in the specific medium (approximately 343 m/s in air at 20°C).
Q4: What are typical wavelength values for different applications?
A: Radio waves have wavelengths from millimeters to kilometers, visible light from 380-750 nanometers, and gamma rays have extremely short wavelengths.
Q5: How does wavelength affect signal propagation?
A: Longer wavelengths generally travel farther and penetrate obstacles better, while shorter wavelengths offer higher data capacity but have shorter range.