In the context of electromagnetic waves, frequency and wavelength are fundamental properties that describe different aspects of these waves.
Frequency: The frequency of an electromagnetic wave refers to the number of wave cycles that pass a given point per unit of time. It is typically measured in hertz (Hz). One hertz is equivalent to one cycle per second. The frequency of an electromagnetic wave determines its energy and is directly related to the wave's color or the type of electromagnetic radiation it represents. For example, radio waves have lower frequencies (ranging from kilohertz to gigahertz), while visible light waves have higher frequencies (ranging from hundreds of terahertz to hundreds of petahertz).
Wavelength: The wavelength of an electromagnetic wave represents the spatial distance between two consecutive wave crests or troughs. It is typically measured in meters. Wavelength and frequency are inversely proportional to each other, meaning that as the frequency increases, the wavelength decreases, and vice versa. This relationship is described by the equation:
c = λ * f
where: c is the speed of light in a vacuum (approximately 3 x 10^8 meters per second), λ is the wavelength, f is the frequency.
Electromagnetic waves encompass a wide range of phenomena, including radio waves, microwaves, infrared, visible light, ultraviolet, X-rays, and gamma rays. Each of these types of electromagnetic waves has a distinct frequency range and wavelength associated with it.