For any wave, speed equals frequency times wavelength. Higher frequency means shorter wavelength.
How to use the Wavelength and Frequency Calculator
- Wave speed
- Frequency
- Want to work backwards? Type a value into Wavelength and Frequency is calculated for you.
Results update as you type, and every field accepts the units shown in its menu.
How it works
Divide the wave speed by the frequency.
Inputs explained
| Field | What to enter |
|---|---|
| Wave speed | Choose one: Light in vacuum (299,792,458 m/s), Sound in air, 20 °C (343 m/s), Sound in water (1,481 m/s) |
| Frequency | Units: Hz, kHz, MHz, GHz |
What each result means
- Wavelength = [Wave speed] ÷ [Frequency]
- Period = 1÷[Frequency]
Example values
How the main result changes when Frequency changes and everything else stays at the example values above:
| Frequency (Hz) | Wavelength (m) |
|---|---|
| 50,000,000 | 6 |
| 75,000,000 | 4 |
| 100,000,000 | 3 |
| 125,000,000 | 2.4 |
| 150,000,000 | 2 |
| 200,000,000 | 1.5 |
Formula
λ = v ÷ fWorked example
Inputs — Wave speed: Light in vacuum (299,792,458 m/s); Frequency: 100,000,000 Hz.
Results — Wavelength = 3 m; Period = 0.00000001 s.
Frequently asked questions
What is the wavelength of FM radio?
About 3 m at 100 MHz.
What wavelength is visible light?
Roughly 380–750 nm.
What formula does the Wavelength and Frequency Calculator use?
λ = v ÷ f.
Can I work backwards from the result?
Yes. Type the result you want into Wavelength and the calculator finds the matching frequency.