Wavelength Calculator
Calculate wavelength from frequency or frequency from wavelength for both electromagnetic and sound waves.
Quick Answer
Wavelength = Speed / Frequency. For EM waves: λ = c / f (c = 299,792,458 m/s). For sound: λ = v / f (v ≈ 343 m/s in air at 20°C).
Results
2.9979 m
Wavelength
100.000 MHz
Frequency
Radio Wave
EM Spectrum
About This Tool
The Wavelength Calculator converts between frequency and wavelength for both electromagnetic (light, radio, X-ray) and sound waves. It uses the fundamental wave equation: wavelength = velocity / frequency.
Electromagnetic Waves
All electromagnetic waves travel at the speed of light in vacuum (c = 299,792,458 m/s). The EM spectrum ranges from radio waves (meters to kilometers) through microwaves, infrared, visible light, ultraviolet, X-rays, to gamma rays (picometers). Frequency and wavelength are inversely proportional.
Sound Waves
Sound travels at about 343 m/s in dry air at 20°C. The speed increases with temperature and in denser media — roughly 1,480 m/s in water and 5,960 m/s in steel. Human hearing ranges from 20 Hz (17 m wavelength) to 20 kHz (17 mm wavelength).
The Electromagnetic Spectrum
Radio waves: >1 mm. Microwave: 1 mm–1 m. Infrared: 700 nm–1 mm. Visible light: 380–700 nm (violet to red). Ultraviolet: 10–380 nm. X-rays: 0.01–10 nm. Gamma rays: <0.01 nm. Each region has unique properties and applications.
Applications
Antenna design requires matching antenna length to the wavelength (or fraction) of the target frequency. Acoustic room treatment uses wavelength to determine absorber thickness. Fiber optics operate at specific wavelengths in the infrared (1310 nm and 1550 nm) for minimal signal loss.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the relationship between wavelength and frequency?
What wavelength is visible light?
How fast does sound travel?
What is the wavelength of WiFi?
Why does wavelength matter for antennas?
Was this tool helpful?