Electomagnetic wave frequency and photons

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the calculation of the frequency of light based on its wavelength, specifically for a wavelength of 600 nm. Participants explore the relationship between wavelength and frequency, and whether the calculated frequency can be attributed to photons.

Discussion Character

  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant calculates the frequency of light with a wavelength of 600 nm using the formula v = c/λ, arriving at a frequency of 49.9654 x 10^12 Hz and questions if this is the frequency of photons.
  • Another participant corrects the exponent in the calculation, suggesting it should be 10^14 instead of 10^12, but agrees that it represents the frequency of photons.
  • A participant expresses confusion over their calculation, maintaining they arrive at 49.9654 x 10^12 Hz and questions the exponent.
  • Another participant provides a calculation that confirms the frequency as approximately 4.99654097 × 10^14 Hz.
  • One participant expresses frustration over their calculations and attempts to clarify the conversion of 600 nm to meters, suggesting that their results align with 49.9 x 10^12 Hz.
  • Another participant suggests an approximate calculation method, leading to a frequency of 5 x 10^14 Hz.
  • Participants share light-hearted comments about the challenges of calculations and the effects of aging on cognitive abilities.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

There is no consensus on the correct frequency calculation, as participants present differing views on the exponent and the resulting frequency. The discussion remains unresolved with multiple competing calculations and interpretations.

Contextual Notes

Participants express uncertainty regarding the conversion of units and the accuracy of their calculations, indicating a reliance on specific definitions and assumptions about wavelength and frequency.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be of interest to individuals studying physics, particularly those focused on electromagnetic waves, light properties, and related mathematical calculations.

donaldson1967
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If i calculate the frequency of light with λ = 600nm ...
Frequency (v) = c/λ
= 49.9654 x 1012 Hz (waves per second)
Can i say this is the frequency of photons i.e. 49.9654 x 1012 Hz (waves per second)
Thanks DD
 
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donaldson1967 said:
If i calculate the frequency of light with λ = 600nm ...
Frequency (v) = c/λ
= 49.9654 x 1012 Hz (waves per second)
Can i say this is the frequency of photons i.e. 49.9654 x 1012 Hz (waves per second)
Thanks DD

The exponent should be 14 and not 12, but yes this is the frequency of the photons.
 
thanks - but i still calculate it as

λ = 600nm
c = 299792458 m/s
Frequency (v) = c/λ
= 49.9654 x 10*12 Hz

not 10*14

??
 
(299 792 458 (m / s)) / (600 nm) = 4.99654097 × 10^14 hertz
 
okay
i still get 49.9654 x 10*12 Hz
going a bit crazy
sorry i must be gaving a cerebral infarct
BUT 600 nm = 600 x10-9?
so 299 792 458 / 600 x 10 -9 = .. 4.99 x 10*13 = 49.9 x 10*12?
 
donaldson1967 said:
okay
i still get 49.9654 x 10*12 Hz
going a bit crazy
sorry i must be gaving a cerebral infarct
BUT 600 nm = 600 x10-9?
so 299 792 458 / 600 x 10 -9 = .. 4.99 x 10*13 = 49.9 x 10*12?

Try it approximately first.

f=c/[tex]\lambda[/tex]=3x108/6x10-7=0.5x1015=5x1014
 
Okay- thanks a million- sorry for being a bit inadequate
d
 
donaldson1967 said:
Okay- thanks a million- sorry for being a bit inadequate
d

The mind does strange things to us sometimes, doesn't it? :smile:

Unfortunately, it gets worse as we get older.
 
Excellent news - something else to look forward to (along with general physical decay)- thanks again - great help
DD
 

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