The wavelength and frequency of a wave are inversely proportional to each other. This means that as the wavelength increases, the frequency decreases, and vice versa. This relationship is described by the equation: speed of light = wavelength x frequency.
Wavelength is typically measured in meters (m), centimeters (cm), or nanometers (nm). In the electromagnetic spectrum, shorter wavelengths have higher frequencies and longer wavelengths have lower frequencies.
The unit of frequency is Hertz (Hz), which represents the number of cycles or oscillations per second. This unit is named after the German physicist Heinrich Hertz.
To calculate wavelength, divide the speed of light (3 x 10^8 m/s) by the frequency. To calculate frequency, divide the speed of light by the wavelength. This equation is commonly written as c = λf, where c is the speed of light, λ is the wavelength, and f is the frequency.
Understanding the relationship between wavelength and frequency is crucial in many scientific fields, including optics, astronomy, and telecommunications. It allows us to understand and manipulate different types of waves, such as light and radio waves, and how they interact with matter. This knowledge also helps us to develop technologies that use waves, such as lasers and wireless communication devices.