Frequency Equation:
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The frequency equation (f = v/λ) relates the frequency of a wave to its velocity and wavelength. This fundamental physics equation is used across many fields including acoustics, electromagnetics, and wave mechanics.
The calculator uses the frequency equation:
Where:
Explanation: The equation shows that frequency is inversely proportional to wavelength when velocity is constant.
Details: Calculating frequency is essential for designing communication systems, analyzing sound waves, understanding electromagnetic radiation, and many other wave-related phenomena.
Tips: Enter velocity in meters per second (m/s) and wavelength in meters (m). Both values must be positive numbers.
Q1: What are typical units for frequency?
A: The SI unit is Hertz (Hz), which equals cycles per second. For higher frequencies, kHz, MHz, or GHz may be used.
Q2: How does this apply to sound waves?
A: For sound in air (v ≈ 343 m/s at 20°C), frequency determines pitch. Human hearing range is about 20 Hz to 20 kHz.
Q3: What about electromagnetic waves?
A: For light (v ≈ 3×10⁸ m/s in vacuum), frequency determines color in visible spectrum (400-790 THz).
Q4: Can this be used for water waves?
A: Yes, but water wave velocity depends on depth and wavelength (dispersive medium).
Q5: What if I know frequency and want wavelength?
A: Rearrange the equation: λ = v/f. You can run the calculation in reverse.