The equation is the speed of light = wavelength * frequency right?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the frequency of blue light given its wavelength using the equation relating the speed of light, wavelength, and frequency. Participants explore the application of this equation, address calculation challenges, and clarify the use of scientific notation.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses confusion about the calculation of frequency from the wavelength of blue light, questioning their understanding of the equation.
  • Another participant confirms that the approach to find frequency by dividing the speed of light by the wavelength is correct.
  • A suggestion is made to ensure proper use of brackets when performing calculations to avoid errors.
  • A different participant provides an alternative calculation method, emphasizing caution with scientific notation and the treatment of exponents.
  • One participant reflects on the distractor answers provided, suggesting that the exponents in the options hint at the correct answer.
  • Another participant admits to making a mistake with exponents while calculating and acknowledges the need to restart the problem.
  • Finally, one participant concludes that they have resolved their confusion, labeling their initial question as "stupid."

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the method to calculate frequency, but there are varying levels of understanding and execution of the calculations, leading to some confusion and errors. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the specific calculation steps and the distractor answers.

Contextual Notes

Some participants mention issues with scientific notation and calculator syntax errors, indicating potential limitations in their understanding of these concepts. There is also an acknowledgment of the complexity involved in handling negative exponents.

AngelShare
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If a blue light has a wavelength of 550 x 10^-9 (550 nanometers), what is the frequency of the light?

I've went over this again and again and yet I keep messing up somewhere...

The equation is the speed of light = wavelength * frequency right?

If I'm trying to find the frequency, the equation would be the speed of light / wavelength = frequency...am I still okay or have I already messed up?:smile:

Okay, if the speed of light in a vacuum (That right there confuses me already but I decided not to delve into it...I'm gettin' tired.:zzz: ) is 2.99792 * 10^8 and the wavelength is 550 * 10^-9...then I just need to fill in the equation.

2.99792 * 10^8/550 * 10^-9 = frequency

Aye, that's a complicated thing to solve... I'm getting no where near the choice answers...

5.45 x 10^14
3.568 E -7
5.5 x 10^-7
2.99 x 10^8

I tried solving that thing about four different ways and still didn't get it right...:bugeye:
 
Last edited:
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AngelShare said:
If a blue light has a wavelength of 550 x 10^-9 (550 nanometers), what is the frequency of the light?
I've went over this again and again and yet I keep messing up somewhere...
The equation is the speed of light = wavelength * frequency right?
If I'm trying to find the frequency, the equation would be the speed of light / wavelength = frequency...am I still okay or have I already messed up?:smile:
Okay, if the speed of light in a vacuum (That right there confuses me already but I decided not to delve into it...I'm gettin' tired.:zzz: ) is 2.99792 * 10^8 and the wavelength is 550 * 10^-9...then I just need to fill in the equation.
2.99792 * 10^8/550 * 10^-9 = frequency

You are right till now.

AngelShare said:
Aye, that's a complicated thing to solve... I'm getting no where near the choice answers...

It's not complicated to solve. Are you using a calculator to solve this? If so, remember to put the brackets properly when you are dividing.
 
Actually, whoever choose those "distractors" was in a generous mood. Looking at the exponents pretty much gives the answer away.
 
siddharth: Are you using a calculator to solve this? If so, remember to put the brackets properly when you are dividing.

No, I tried but I kept getting "ERR: SYNTAX" and I'm guessing it had to do with the negative exponent. That's why I tried to solve it by hand.

Astronuc: try 2.99792/550 * 108/10-9= 0.00545 * 10^17

I believe that's one of the things I tried but I messed up the exponents. When dividing, I thought you were to subtract them...Oh wait, that'd still come to 17. Wow, I can't believe I made such a goofy mistake.:smile: Either way, that isn't one of the answers...

HallsofIvy: Looking at the exponents pretty much gives the answer away.

Aye, I figured this was a rather easy problem that I just wasn't getting for some odd reason...:shy:

I think I'll start this one over and try again, hopefully I'm not missing something that'll mess me up.:smile:
 
Never mind, got it...that was a stupid question.:blushing:
 

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