How does a given wave acquire it's frequency ?

[ValenceE]

Hello to all,

the space around us is filled with EM waves vibrating at different frequencies...

my question is ; How does a given wave acquire it's frequency ?


Regards,

VE

 

[HallsofIvy]

The frequency of an electro-magnetic wave is determined by its energy. When an electron jumps from a higher energy level to a lower energy level, the lost energy goes into a photon. It is that difference in energy levels that determines the frequency.

 

[dst]

Through the relation e=hf. Given a certain amount of energy due to be released (say by an electron changing state) the resultant wave will simply have that frequency.