1. What is Wavelength?

Wavelength (λ) is the distance between consecutive crests of a wave, typically measured in meters. It's a fundamental property of waves that determines many of their characteristics.

2. The Wavelength Equation

The wavelength is calculated using the equation:

Where:

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

Explanation: The equation shows that wavelength is inversely proportional to frequency - higher frequency waves have shorter wavelengths.

3. Practical Applications

Details: Wavelength calculations are essential in fields like telecommunications (radio waves), optics (light waves), acoustics (sound waves), and oceanography (water waves).

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the wave speed in meters per second and frequency in hertz. Both values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the wavelength of visible light?
A: Visible light ranges from about 380 nm (violet) to 700 nm (red), with corresponding frequencies of 790-430 THz.

Q2: How does wavelength relate to energy?
A: For electromagnetic waves, shorter wavelengths correspond to higher energy photons (E = hc/λ, where h is Planck's constant).

Q3: What affects wave speed?
A: Wave speed depends on the medium - sound travels faster in water than air, light travels slower in glass than vacuum.

Q4: Can wavelength be measured directly?
A: Yes, with proper instruments like spectrometers for light or interferometers for various wave types.

Q5: What's the difference between wavelength and period?
A: Wavelength is spatial (distance between wave peaks), while period is temporal (time between wave peaks).