Wavelength Calculator
Calculate wavelength, frequency, photon energy, and wave speed for science & engineering
Enter any value below, and the related wave properties will be calculated instantly. Units are adjustable for each input. Visualize your chosen wavelength on the electromagnetic spectrum and learn how these relationships work!
Calculated Results
Electromagnetic Spectrum Visualization
Gamma
X-rays UV Visible Infrared Microwaves
Radio
X-rays UV Visible Infrared Microwaves
Radio
Your calculated wavelength is marked on the scale below for reference.
Key Formulas
Wave Speed: v = f × λ | Frequency: f = v / λ | Wavelength: λ = v / f
Photon Energy: E = h × f = (h × c) / λ where h = 6.62607015×10-34 J·s and c = 2.99792458×108 m/s
Conversions:
1 eV = 1.602176634×10-19 J
λ units: 1 m = 109 nm = 106 µm = 100 cm = 0.001 km
λ units: 1 m = 109 nm = 106 µm = 100 cm = 0.001 km
What is the Electromagnetic Spectrum?
The electromagnetic spectrum is the full range of all electromagnetic wave frequencies, from the shortest gamma rays to the longest radio waves. Visible light is a tiny sliver of the spectrum, with wavelengths from about 400 nm (violet) to 700 nm (red). Each part of the spectrum has unique properties and uses:
- Gamma rays/X-rays: Medical imaging, sterilization, astronomy
- Ultraviolet (UV): Sunlight, sterilization, fluorescence
- Visible light: What human eyes can see (ROYGBIV)
- Infrared (IR): Heat imaging, TV remotes, night vision
- Microwaves/Radio: Communications, radar, cooking (microwave ovens), broadcasting
Mechanical waves (like sound, water, seismic) travel at different speeds and require a medium, unlike electromagnetic waves which can travel through a vacuum.
Applications & Further Learning
- Telecommunications: Radio and microwave wavelengths for wireless communication, Wi-Fi, cellular networks
- Medical Physics: X-ray and gamma ray diagnostics and therapy
- Optics: Lasers, fiber optics, spectroscopy, microscopy
- Astronomy: Mapping the universe in multiple wavelength bands
- Everyday: Infrared for TV remotes/night vision, visible in screens, UV for detecting counterfeit notes, radio for broadcasting
Related Video: Electromagnetic Spectrum Explained
Video credit: NASA eClips/Youtube