In this Frequency to Wavelength guide, we will show you how to find the wavelength in a matter of seconds.
We will also help you understand the wavelength definition, and the wavelength formula while we’re at it.
What is wavelength?
What is the difference between wavelength vs. frequency?
How to calculate wavelength for sound, light, or other waves?
Find all the answers here! We will also explore real-world examples and applications to make it easier to understand how waves work around us.
Frequency → Wavelength Calculator
Enter frequency and choose the wave speed (or enter a custom speed).
Frequency → Wavelength Explained
Formula & Concept
The wavelength (λ) of a wave is calculated by dividing the wave speed (v) by its frequency (f):
λ = v / f
- λ = Wavelength (meters)
- v = Wave speed (m/s)
- f = Frequency (Hz)
This formula applies to sound waves, electromagnetic waves, or any periodic wave.
Worked Example 1
Problem: A sound wave in air has a frequency of 500 Hz. The speed of sound in air is 343 m/s. Find the wavelength.
Step 1: Identify known values
- f = 500 Hz
- v = 343 m/s
Step 2: Apply the formula
λ = v / f
Step 3: Calculate
λ = 343 / 500 = 0.686 m
Answer: Wavelength λ = 0.686 meters
Worked Example 2
Problem: An electromagnetic wave has a frequency of 6 × 10¹⁴ Hz. Find its wavelength in vacuum (speed of light v = 3 × 10⁸ m/s).
Step 1: Identify known values
- f = 6 × 10¹⁴ Hz
- v = 3 × 10⁸ m/s
Step 2: Apply the formula
λ = v / f
Step 3: Calculate
λ = 3 × 10⁸ / 6 × 10¹⁴ = 5 × 10⁻⁷ m
Answer: Wavelength λ = 500 nm (nanometers)
Real-World Wave Applications
Sound Waves (Air)
Speed: 343 m/s
Wavelength: 1.7 cm – 17 m
Use: Music, speech, sonar
Electromagnetic Waves (Light)
Speed: 3 × 10⁸ m/s
Wavelength: 400 – 700 nm
Use: Vision, lasers, optical communication
Radio Waves
Speed: 3 × 10⁸ m/s
Wavelength: 1 mm – 100 km
Use: Broadcasting, Wi-Fi, radar
Water Waves
Speed: 1–10 m/s
Wavelength: 1–20 m
Use: Coastal engineering, wave energy
Differences Between Wavelength and Frequency
| Aspect | Wavelength (λ) | Frequency (f) |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | The distance between two consecutive crests or troughs of a wave | The number of wave cycles that pass a point per second |
| Unit | Meters (m) | Hertz (Hz) |
| Relationship | Inversely proportional to frequency (λ = v / f) | Inversely proportional to wavelength (f = v / λ) |
| Represents | Spatial length of a wave | Temporal repetition of a wave |
FAQs
What is wavelength?
In this wavelength guide, we will show you what wavelength is in simple words. Wavelength (λ) is the distance between two consecutive crests or troughs of a wave.
What is frequency?
We will also help you understand frequency. Frequency (f) is the number of wave cycles that pass a point in one second, measured in Hertz (Hz).
How are wavelength and frequency related?
They are inversely proportional. This means higher frequency gives a shorter wavelength, and lower frequency gives a longer wavelength.
Can wavelength be calculated for all types of waves?
Yes! You can calculate the wavelength for sound waves, light waves, water waves, and any other periodic wave.