The relationship between frequency and wavelength is inversely proportional. In other words, as the wavelength of a wave increases, its frequency decreases, and vice versa. This relationship is described by the equation:
c = λν
where:
- c is the speed of light in a vacuum (approximately 3 x 10^8 meters per second)
- λ (lambda) is the wavelength of the wave, measured in meters
- ν (nu) is the frequency of the wave, measured in hertz (Hz)
This equation shows that the product of wavelength and frequency is always equal to the speed of light. Therefore, if the wavelength of a wave increases, the frequency decreases, and if the wavelength decreases, the frequency increases. This relationship holds true for all types of waves, including electromagnetic waves like light.