This tool converts Frequency to Wavelength.
Background
Frequency and wavelength are inversely related properties of waves, including electromagnetic waves like light and radio waves. The frequency (measured in hertz, Hz) refers to how many wave cycles pass a point in one second, while wavelength (measured in meters, m) refers to the distance between consecutive peaks of a wave.
Formula
Wavelength is given by the formula
λ = c/f
where, c is the speed of light and f is the frequency. In a vacuum, the speed of light is c = 299,792,458 meters/second. It is slower in other media such as in glass for instance where the speed is 200,000,000 meters/second. Change the value of c in the calculator above to calculate the frequency in this case.
The picture below shows the wavelength (λ) of a sine wave
Frequency and Wavelength in RF Engineering
Most Radio engineers are used to referring to regions of the electromagnetic spectrum in terms frequency – for instance the Wi-Fi band is 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. The exception is when you get to lower frequencies in HF and VHF. In those situations, engineers, hobbyists and technologists refer to the wavelength. For instance the 2 meter and 70 cm bands. It can be a little confusing sometimes (it was for me at least). I use this calculator to clear that up.
Applications
- Telecommunications: In radio communications, the relationship between frequency and wavelength is used to design antennas and set up transmission systems.
- Astronomy: Astronomers convert observed frequencies of light from distant stars and galaxies into wavelengths to analyze properties like the object’s speed and distance.
- Microwaves and Radar: Engineers convert microwave frequencies to wavelengths to design radar systems and microwave ovens for optimal performance.