How to Calculate the Frequency of Lightwave at 500nm Wavelength

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the frequency of a lightwave with a wavelength of 500nm, using the speed of light as a constant. Participants are exploring the relationship between wavelength, frequency, and speed of light in the context of this problem.

Discussion Character

  • Mathematical reasoning, Problem interpretation, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants attempt to derive the frequency using the formula f = v/λ, with varying levels of algebraic accuracy. Some express confusion over the algebraic manipulation involved in the calculation. Questions about the correct input of equations and the use of LaTeX are also raised.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants providing feedback on each other's algebraic approaches. Some have suggested corrections and clarifications, while others express uncertainty about their calculations. There is no explicit consensus on the correct frequency value yet.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working under the constraints of a homework assignment, with some expressing frustration over their understanding of the material. There is also a mention of a sticky post regarding LaTeX typesetting for equation input.

Grandor
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This sounds like a stupid question. However my teacher didnt really explain it well.
Its my first day back at school, cut me some slack thx.

- Calculate the frequency of a lightwave of wavelengh 500nm. Travelling at speed of light (3x10^8 ms-1)
-----------------------------------------
I WILL SUBSITUTE LAMBDA for H (cause i don't know how to type it)

f = ?
h = 500nm
V = 3x10^8 ms-1.

So 500nm x 10^-9 = 0.0000005m

V = fh

Therefore f = h/V

0.0000005m / 3000 000 00ms = ?

Would that be 1.66666666666666666 x10^-15?

BTW- can someone tell me how to input equations?
 
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Grandor said:
V = fh

Therefore f = h/V

your algebra is not quite correct
 
vincentchan said:
your algebra is not quite correct

err,
V = fXh
Divide out the f... f/V = h. So you would have to multiply out the V to get/

f = vh ??

0.0000005m x 3000 000 00ms = ?

so F=150? ?
 
V = fh

V/h = fh/h
V/h = f

from memory green light should have a freq around something x 10^14
 
6 x 10^14 perhaps?

How could i cock it up that much? TWICE! But I see the logic now.
Thankyou.
 
[tex]f = \frac{v}{\lambda}[/tex] where [tex]v[/tex] is speed and [tex]\lambda[/tex] is wavelength.
 
Grandor said:
BTW- can someone tell me how to input equations?

Read the sticky post on LaTEX typesetting.
 

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