Wavelength & Frequency Calculator

General Physics

Calculate wavelength, frequency, or wave speed for any type of wave. Enter two values to find the third. Supports all common units.

Examples

See how to use the calculator for different types of waves.

Light in Vacuum

light

Calculate the wavelength of visible light (red) with a frequency of 4.3×10¹⁴ Hz.

Speed: 299792458 m/s, Freq: 430000000000000 Hz

Sound in Air

sound

Find the wavelength of a 440 Hz sound wave (A4 note) in air.

Speed: 343 m/s, Freq: 440 Hz

Water Wave

water

Calculate the wavelength of a water wave with a speed of 1.5 m/s and frequency 2 Hz.

Speed: 1.5 m/s, Freq: 2 Hz

FM Radio Wave

radio

Find the wavelength of a 100 MHz FM radio wave.

Speed: 299792458 m/s, Freq: 100 MHz

Other Titles
Understanding Wavelength & Frequency Calculator: A Comprehensive Guide
Master the relationship between wave speed, frequency, and wavelength.

What is Wavelength, Frequency, and Wave Speed?

  • Definition of Wavelength
  • Definition of Frequency
  • Definition of Wave Speed
Wavelength is the distance between two consecutive points in phase on a wave, such as crest to crest or trough to trough. Frequency is the number of wave cycles that pass a point per second, measured in Hertz (Hz). Wave speed is the rate at which the wave propagates through a medium.
Key Concepts

Concept Examples

  • A sound wave with a frequency of 440 Hz and speed of 343 m/s has a wavelength of 0.78 m.
  • A light wave with a frequency of 5×10¹⁴ Hz and speed of 3×10⁸ m/s has a wavelength of 600 nm.

Step-by-Step Guide to Using the Calculator

  • Input Two Values
  • Select Appropriate Units
  • View Results Instantly
To use the calculator, enter any two of the three values: wave speed, frequency, or wavelength. Select the correct units for each. The calculator will automatically compute the third value and display it in multiple units.
User Instructions

Usage Examples

  • Enter wave speed as 343 m/s and frequency as 440 Hz to get wavelength.
  • Enter wavelength as 1.5 m and frequency as 2 Hz to get wave speed.

Real-World Applications of Wavelength & Frequency Calculations

  • Physics and Engineering
  • Music and Acoustics
  • Telecommunications
Wavelength and frequency calculations are essential in physics, engineering, music, and telecommunications. They help in designing musical instruments, analyzing light spectra, and optimizing radio transmissions.
Applications

Application Examples

  • Calculating the wavelength of a radio signal for antenna design.
  • Determining the frequency of a sound wave for tuning musical instruments.

Common Misconceptions and Correct Methods

  • Confusing Units
  • Incorrect Formula Usage
  • Ignoring Medium Effects
A common mistake is using inconsistent units (e.g., mixing m/s with kHz). Always ensure units are compatible. Another error is applying the formula incorrectly or ignoring the effect of the medium on wave speed.
Avoiding Errors

Misconception Examples

  • Using km/h for speed and Hz for frequency without conversion leads to wrong results.
  • Assuming sound travels at the same speed in air and water is incorrect.

Mathematical Derivation and Examples

  • The Wavelength Formula
  • Unit Conversions
  • Worked Examples
The fundamental formula is wavelength = wave speed / frequency. For unit conversions, ensure all values are in SI units before calculation. The calculator handles these conversions automatically.
Mathematical Details

Mathematical Examples

  • If wave speed = 1500 m/s and frequency = 3 kHz, wavelength = 0.5 m.
  • If wavelength = 2 m and frequency = 5 Hz, wave speed = 10 m/s.