1. What is Wavelength?

Wavelength is the distance between successive crests of a wave, especially in a sound wave or electromagnetic wave. It is inversely proportional to frequency and depends on the speed of wave propagation in the medium.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the wavelength formula:

Where:

• \( \lambda \) — Wavelength (meters)
• \( c \) — Speed of wave in medium (meters/second)
• \( f \) — Frequency (Hz)

Explanation: Higher frequencies result in shorter wavelengths, and lower frequencies result in longer wavelengths, when wave speed is constant.

3. Importance of Wavelength Calculation

Details: Wavelength calculation is essential in fields like telecommunications, acoustics, optics, and radio astronomy. It helps in antenna design, wave propagation studies, and understanding wave behavior in different media.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter frequency in Hz, select the medium (or provide custom wave speed). All values must be valid (frequency > 0, speed > 0).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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

Q2: Why does the medium affect wavelength?
A: Different media have different wave propagation speeds. For example, light travels slower in water than in air, affecting the wavelength.

Q3: What are typical wavelength ranges?
A: Visible light: 380-750 nm, FM radio: ~3m, AM radio: ~300m, X-rays: 0.01-10 nm.

Q4: Can this calculator be used for sound waves?
A: Yes, as long as you know the speed of sound in your medium (e.g., ~343 m/s in air at 20°C).

Q5: How does temperature affect wavelength?
A: Temperature affects wave speed in a medium (especially for sound), which in turn affects wavelength for a given frequency.