How to Calculate the Frequency of Lightwave at 500nm Wavelength

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SUMMARY

The frequency of a lightwave with a wavelength of 500nm can be calculated using the formula f = v/λ, where v is the speed of light (3 x 10^8 m/s) and λ is the wavelength in meters (0.0000005m). The correct calculation yields a frequency of approximately 6 x 10^14 Hz. The discussion highlights common algebraic mistakes in rearranging the formula and emphasizes the importance of understanding the relationship between wavelength and frequency in wave physics.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of wave properties, specifically wavelength and frequency
  • Familiarity with the speed of light (3 x 10^8 m/s)
  • Basic algebra skills for manipulating equations
  • Knowledge of LaTeX typesetting for mathematical expressions
NEXT STEPS
  • Learn how to derive the wave equation f = v/λ
  • Explore the concept of electromagnetic spectrum and its frequency ranges
  • Study the principles of LaTeX typesetting for inputting equations
  • Investigate the relationship between wavelength, frequency, and energy in photons
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Students in physics, educators teaching wave properties, and anyone interested in understanding the calculations related to lightwaves and their frequencies.

Grandor
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This sounds like a stupid question. However my teacher didnt really explain it well.
Its my first day back at school, cut me some slack thx.

- Calculate the frequency of a lightwave of wavelengh 500nm. Travelling at speed of light (3x10^8 ms-1)
-----------------------------------------
I WILL SUBSITUTE LAMBDA for H (cause i don't know how to type it)

f = ?
h = 500nm
V = 3x10^8 ms-1.

So 500nm x 10^-9 = 0.0000005m

V = fh

Therefore f = h/V

0.0000005m / 3000 000 00ms = ?

Would that be 1.66666666666666666 x10^-15?

BTW- can someone tell me how to input equations?
 
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Grandor said:
V = fh

Therefore f = h/V

your algebra is not quite correct
 
vincentchan said:
your algebra is not quite correct

err,
V = fXh
Divide out the f... f/V = h. So you would have to multiply out the V to get/

f = vh ??

0.0000005m x 3000 000 00ms = ?

so F=150? ?
 
V = fh

V/h = fh/h
V/h = f

from memory green light should have a freq around something x 10^14
 
6 x 10^14 perhaps?

How could i cock it up that much? TWICE! But I see the logic now.
Thankyou.
 
f = \frac{v}{\lambda} where v is speed and \lambda is wavelength.
 
Grandor said:
BTW- can someone tell me how to input equations?

Read the sticky post on LaTEX typesetting.
 

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