physics calculator
Wavelength Calculator
Calculate wavelength from wave speed and frequency with Hz, kHz, MHz, and GHz input.
Wavelength Calculator
Wavelength
Enter wave speed and frequency.
Use the wave speed for the actual medium and conditions.
Formula version 1.0.0
How to use this calculator
- Enter the wave speed in metres per second.
- Enter the positive frequency.
- Choose Hz, kHz, MHz, or GHz.
- Calculate and read wavelength in metres from λ = v/f.
Symbols and units
| Symbol | Meaning | Unit or domain |
|---|---|---|
λ | Wavelength | m |
v | Wave speed | m/s |
f | Frequency | Hz |
Checked examples
100 MHz electromagnetic wave
Inputs: Speed 299,792,458 m/s; frequency 100 MHz
Calculation: λ = 299,792,458 ÷ 100,000,000
Result: 2.99792458 m
Each cycle spans just under three metres in the stated medium.
Check: wavelength.test.ts
One-kilohertz sound example
Inputs: Speed 340 m/s; frequency 1 kHz
Calculation: λ = 340 ÷ 1,000
Result: 0.34 m
Entering 1 kHz or 1000 Hz gives the same wavelength.
Check: wavelength.test.ts
Assumptions, rounding, and limits
- Speed and frequency are positive.
- Wave speed is constant in the chosen medium.
- Frequency-unit conversion is exact.
- Dispersion, attenuation, and boundary effects are not modeled.
Frequently asked questions
Is wave speed always the speed of light?
No. Use the speed appropriate to the wave and medium.
Why does higher frequency shorten wavelength?
At fixed speed, wavelength is inversely proportional to frequency.
Can I enter GHz?
Yes. The calculator converts GHz to hertz before applying the formula.
Sources and review
- OpenStax: Wave Properties: Speed, Amplitude, Frequency, and Period — Wave speed, frequency, and wavelength
- Formula version
- wave.wavelength@1.0.0
- Formula review
- Equatara formula review
- Editorial review
- Equatara editorial review
- Last verified
- 2026-10-25
- Applicability
- Uniform wave propagation using a user-supplied phase speed.
- Next review
- On material formula/source change, or by 2028-10-25.
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Found a problem?
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