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Frequency Equation:
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The frequency of a photon is the number of wave cycles that pass a given point per second, determined by the speed of light divided by the photon's wavelength. It's a fundamental property that determines the photon's energy and its position in the electromagnetic spectrum.
The calculator uses the frequency equation:
Where:
Explanation: This equation shows the inverse relationship between wavelength and frequency - as wavelength increases, frequency decreases proportionally.
Details: Calculating photon frequency is essential in quantum mechanics, spectroscopy, and understanding electromagnetic radiation properties. The frequency determines whether the photon is radio, microwave, infrared, visible light, ultraviolet, X-ray, or gamma radiation.
Tips: Enter wavelength in meters (e.g., 500 nm = 5e-7 m) and speed of light (default is 3e8 m/s). Both values must be positive numbers.
Q1: Why is the speed of light constant in this equation?
A: According to Einstein's theory of relativity, the speed of light in vacuum (c) is a fundamental constant of nature, approximately 3 × 10⁸ m/s.
Q2: How does frequency relate to photon energy?
A: Energy is directly proportional to frequency (E = hf, where h is Planck's constant). Higher frequency means higher energy photons.
Q3: What's a typical visible light frequency?
A: Visible light ranges from about 4.3 × 10¹⁴ Hz (red) to 7.5 × 10¹⁴ Hz (violet).
Q4: Does frequency change when light enters a medium?
A: No, frequency remains constant, but wavelength and speed change proportionally when light enters a different medium.
Q5: Can this equation be used for all electromagnetic waves?
A: Yes, it applies to all EM radiation from radio waves to gamma rays, as they all travel at light speed in vacuum.