Period and frequency of a lightwave

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the frequency and period of a lightwave with a wavelength of 630 nm. The correct frequency is determined to be 4.76 x 1014 Hz, while the period is calculated as 2.1 x 10-15 seconds. The initial calculation error stemmed from incorrect handling of powers of ten, which was rectified by proper use of parentheses in the calculator. The conversion of wavelength from nanometers to meters was confirmed as accurate.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the speed of light (c = 3 x 108 m/s)
  • Knowledge of wavelength conversion from nanometers to meters
  • Familiarity with the formulas for frequency (F = c/λ) and period (T = 1/F)
  • Basic calculator skills, particularly with scientific notation
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the relationship between wavelength, frequency, and period in electromagnetic waves
  • Explore the implications of lightwave properties in optics and photonics
  • Learn about the applications of lightwave frequency in telecommunications
  • Investigate the effects of wavelength on energy and photon behavior
USEFUL FOR

Students in physics, educators teaching wave mechanics, and professionals in optics and telecommunications who require a solid understanding of lightwave properties.

menco
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Homework Statement


If a lightwave has a wavelength of 630nm, what is the period and frequency?


Homework Equations


F=c/v
T=1/F


The Attempt at a Solution


F = 3x10^8/6.3x10^-7 = 4.76Hz

T = 1/F = 1/4.76 = 0.21s

Am I correct or way off? I converted the wavelength to meters hoping this was correct
 
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Converting the wavelength to meter is correct, but you are still way off. Take a look at your powers of 10 again.
 
Yeah menco, there is a calculation error and nothing else.
 
Ah yes i forgot to put it in brackets on the calculator. I had another try and got

4.76x10^14 Hz and 2.1x10^-15 seconds
 
menco said:
2.1x10^-15 seconds

2.1 x 10-15 s-1 ,, not just s
 
Seconds is ok. The result looks good menco.
 

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