Calculating the Frequency of White Light

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on measuring the frequency of light emitted during sonoluminescence. It clarifies that white light does not have a single frequency, as it consists of a mixture of multiple frequencies. Participants recommend using a spectrometer to measure the wavelengths of the emitted light and then calculating the corresponding frequencies using the speed of light. This method provides a practical approach for researchers studying sonoluminescence.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of sonoluminescence principles
  • Familiarity with spectrometers
  • Knowledge of wavelength and frequency calculations
  • Basic physics of light and sound waves
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the operation and calibration of spectrometers
  • Learn about the relationship between wavelength and frequency in light
  • Explore advanced sonoluminescence experiments and their setups
  • Investigate the implications of light frequency in various scientific applications
USEFUL FOR

Researchers in physics, particularly those studying sonoluminescence, as well as students and educators interested in the properties of light and sound interactions.

nst.john
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I am doing a research project on sonoluminescence and I want to measure the ratio between the frequency of the sound waves needed to create the cavitation bubble to the frequency of the light emitted. If I have the spectral lines of the light emitted, is there a way to measure the frequency of the white light?

Thank You!
 
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White light does not have a frequency. It is a mixture of waves with frequencies in a specific range.
You can measure the frequencies of the spectral lines that you mention. Why did you ever mention white light? Do you think you have white light emitted by your system?
 
White light is, by definition, comprised of multiple individual frequencies. You could measure each individual frequency, but it is meaningless to ask about "the frequency of white light".
 
nst.john said:
If I have the spectral lines of the light emitted, is there a way to measure the frequency of the white light?

Measure the wavelength using a spectrometer, then calculate the frequency using the wavelength and the speed of light.
 
Sounds good. I know we have one at our school so I can do that. Thanks so much! this can help a lot.
 

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