1. What is Wavelength?

Wavelength is the spatial period of a periodic wave—the distance over which the wave's shape repeats. It is usually denoted by the Greek letter lambda (λ).

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the wavelength formula:

Where:

• \( \lambda \) — Wavelength (meters)
• \( c \) — Speed of the wave (meters/second)
• \( f \) — Frequency (Hertz)

Explanation: The wavelength is inversely proportional to the frequency - higher frequencies have shorter wavelengths.

3. Importance of Wavelength Calculation

Details: Wavelength calculations are essential in physics, engineering, telecommunications, and many other fields where wave phenomena are important.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter frequency in Hertz and wave speed in meters per second. For electromagnetic waves in vacuum, the default speed of light (3×10⁸ m/s) is pre-filled.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the relationship between wavelength and frequency?
A: They are inversely proportional when wave speed is constant - as frequency increases, wavelength decreases.

Q2: What are typical wavelength ranges?
A: Radio waves can be kilometers long, visible light is 400-700 nm, and gamma rays have picometer wavelengths.

Q3: Does wavelength change in different media?
A: Yes, when a wave enters a different medium, its speed changes, which affects wavelength while frequency stays constant.

Q4: How is wavelength related to energy?
A: For electromagnetic waves, shorter wavelengths correspond to higher energy photons (E = hc/λ).

Q5: What's the difference between phase velocity and group velocity?
A: Phase velocity is the rate at which the phase propagates, while group velocity is the rate at which the overall envelope propagates.