The frequency to wavelength calculator converts between frequency and wavelength in any medium — free space, air, water, coaxial cable, or fiber optic. Covers audio, RF, microwave, and optical frequencies.
Frequency ↔ Wavelength Converter
How to Convert Frequency to Wavelength
All electromagnetic radiation travels at the speed of light (c = 299,792,458 m/s in a vacuum). The relationship λ = c/f applies universally — from radio waves (wavelengths in hundreds of meters) to gamma rays (wavelengths smaller than an atom).
Frequency Band Reference
AM radio: 530-1700 kHz (wavelength 176-566 m). FM radio: 87-108 MHz (2.8-3.4 m). WiFi 2.4 GHz: 12.5 cm. WiFi 5 GHz: 6 cm. Visible light: 380-700 nm (430-790 THz). Understanding wavelength helps with antenna design, interference analysis, and cable delay calculations.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I convert frequency to wavelength?
Wavelength λ = v/f, where v is the propagation speed and f is the frequency. In free space/air, v = speed of light (299,792,458 m/s). For a 100 MHz FM radio signal: λ = 299,792,458 / 100,000,000 = 2.998 meters. In coaxial cable with 0.66 velocity factor, λ = 2.998 × 0.66 = 1.98 meters.
What is the relationship between frequency and wavelength?
Frequency and wavelength are inversely proportional: as frequency increases, wavelength decreases. Their product always equals the propagation speed in that medium. Radio waves at 1 MHz have 300m wavelength; visible light at 500 THz has a wavelength of only 600nm.
What is velocity factor?
Velocity factor is the ratio of signal propagation speed in a medium to the speed of light in a vacuum. Coaxial cable RG-58 has a velocity factor of 0.66 — signals travel at 66% the speed of light. This affects antenna length calculations and determines how long cables need to be for phased array systems.
Is this calculator free?
Yes, completely free with no signup or account needed.