1. What is Wavelength from Photon Energy?

The wavelength of a photon can be calculated from its energy using Planck's constant and the speed of light. This relationship is fundamental in quantum mechanics and electromagnetic theory.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the wavelength formula:

Where:

• \( \lambda \) — Wavelength in meters (m)
• \( h \) — Planck's constant (6.626 × 10⁻³⁴ J·s)
• \( c \) — Speed of light (3 × 10⁸ m/s)
• \( E \) — Photon energy in joules (J)

Explanation: The equation shows the inverse relationship between photon energy and wavelength - higher energy photons have shorter wavelengths.

3. Importance of Wavelength Calculation

Details: Calculating wavelength from photon energy is essential in spectroscopy, quantum physics, photochemistry, and understanding electromagnetic radiation across the spectrum from radio waves to gamma rays.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the photon energy in joules. The value must be positive (E > 0). For electronvolts (eV), first convert to joules (1 eV = 1.60218 × 10⁻¹⁹ J).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the range of typical photon energies?
A: Photon energies range from ~10⁻²⁵ J (radio waves) to ~10⁻¹³ J (gamma rays). Visible light is ~10⁻¹⁹ J.

Q2: How does wavelength relate to color for visible light?
A: Violet light is ~400 nm, red ~700 nm. Shorter wavelengths (higher energy) appear violet/blue, longer wavelengths appear red.

Q3: Why is Planck's constant important?
A: Planck's constant relates the energy of a photon to its frequency (E = hν), connecting particle and wave properties of light.

Q4: Can this be used for all electromagnetic radiation?
A: Yes, the relationship applies across the entire EM spectrum, from radio waves to gamma rays.

Q5: What if I have energy in electronvolts (eV)?
A: First convert eV to joules (1 eV = 1.60218 × 10⁻¹⁹ J) before using this calculator.