Does Wavelength Times Frequency Determine Speed of Light?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the relationship between wavelength, frequency, and the speed of light, specifically questioning whether the formula Speed = Wavelength * Frequency applies universally to all forms of electromagnetic radiation.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the terminology surrounding the speed of light, questioning whether it is appropriate to refer to 'c' as the speed of light or if it should encompass all electromagnetic radiation. There are inquiries about the implications of this terminology and its accuracy.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively engaging in clarifying definitions and exploring different interpretations of the term 'speed of light.' Some guidance has been offered regarding the general acceptance of the term, but no consensus has been reached on the implications of using 'c' in various contexts.

Contextual Notes

There is an ongoing debate about the appropriateness of terminology in physics, particularly in relation to the speed of different types of electromagnetic radiation. Some participants express uncertainty about the implications of calling 'c' the speed of light versus the speed of electromagnetic radiation.

bonjour
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equals speed?

I only ask as I couldn't find a solid answer online.
 
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Isn't calling C the speed of light in e=mc2 misleading as light is a specific part of the electromagnetic radiation spectrum.

Shouldn't C be the speed ot the electromagnetic radiation spectrum
 
Since all forms of electromagnetic radiation have the same speed in a vacuum, calling 'c' the speed of light is OK. Often all wavelengths, not just the visible, are referred to as 'light'.
 
Right so then there would also be no objection to calling C the speed of gamma, or speed of infrared?
 
bonjour said:
Right so then there would also be no objection to calling C the speed of gamma, or speed of infrared?
Sure. No problem. All the same. Just calling it the 'speed of light' is more generic, though.
 
http://www.chacha.com/question/how-does-the-speed-of-visible-light-compare-with-the-speed-of-gamma-rays-when-both-speeds-are-measured-in-a-vacum

Is this true?
 
Last edited by a moderator:
bonjour said:
http://www.chacha.com/question/how-does-the-speed-of-visible-light-compare-with-the-speed-of-gamma-rays-when-both-speeds-are-measured-in-a-vacum

Is this true?
Nope.
 
Last edited by a moderator:

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