Converting Wavelength to Frequency of Light

Converting Wavelength to Frequency of Light This example problem demonstrates how to find the frequency of light from the wavelength. Wavelength is the distance or length between the peaks, troughs, or other fixed points on a wave. Frequency is the rate at which successive peaks, valleys, or points pass per second. Wavelength to Frequency Problem The Aurora Borealis is a night display in the Northern latitudes caused by ionizing radiation interacting with the Earths magnetic field and the upper atmosphere. The distinctive green color is caused by the interaction of the radiation with oxygen and has a wavelength of 5577 Ã…. What is the frequency of this light? Solution The speed of light, c, is equal to the product of the wavelength, ÃŽ », and the frequency, ÃŽ ½.ThereforeÃŽ ½ c/ÃŽ »ÃŽ ½ 3 x 108 m/sec/(5577 Ã… x 10-10 m/1 Ã…)ÃŽ ½ 3 x 108 m/sec/(5.577 x 10-7ÃŽ ½ 5.38 x 1014 Hz Answer: The frequency of the 5577 Ã… light is ÃŽ ½ 5.38 x 1014 Hz.