Wavelength from Energy Equation:
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The wavelength from energy equation relates the energy of a photon to its wavelength using Planck's constant and the speed of light. This fundamental physics relationship is widely used in quantum mechanics and spectroscopy.
The calculator uses the equation:
Where:
Explanation: The equation shows that higher energy photons have shorter wavelengths, and vice versa.
Details: Calculating wavelength from energy is essential in spectroscopy, quantum physics, and understanding electromagnetic radiation. It helps determine the type of radiation (radio, microwave, visible light, X-rays, etc.) based on its energy.
Tips: Enter the photon energy in joules. The value must be positive. For typical atomic transitions, energies are often in the range of 10⁻¹⁹ to 10⁻¹⁸ joules.
Q1: What is Planck's constant?
A: Planck's constant (h) is a fundamental physical constant that relates the energy of a photon to its frequency (E = hν).
Q2: Can I use electron volts (eV) instead of joules?
A: Yes, but you'll need to convert eV to joules first (1 eV = 1.602 × 10⁻¹⁹ J).
Q3: What's the wavelength range for visible light?
A: Approximately 380-750 nanometers (3.8-7.5 × 10⁻⁷ m), corresponding to photon energies of about 1.65-3.26 eV.
Q4: Why is the speed of light important in this equation?
A: The equation derives from the relationship between a photon's energy and frequency (E = hν) combined with the wave equation (c = λν).
Q5: Can this be used for particles other than photons?
A: For particles with mass, you need to use the de Broglie wavelength equation instead.