The frequency of light with a wavelength of 400 nm is approximately 750,000,000 Hz.
To convert nanometers (nm) to hertz (Hz), we use the formula: frequency = speed of light / wavelength. Since the speed of light is roughly 3 x 108 meters per second, we first convert 400 nm to meters (1 nm = 1 x 10-9 m), then divide. This gives us the number of wave cycles passing a point per second, which is the frequency in Hz.
400 nm to Hz
When converting from nanometers to hertz, you need to understand that wavelength and frequency are inversely related. Shorter wavelengths correspond to higher frequencies, and vice versa. In this case, 400 nm falls within the visible spectrum, and its frequency is calculated by dividing the speed of light by the wavelength in meters.
Conversion Tool
Result in hz:
Conversion Formula
The formula for converting wavelength in nanometers to frequency in Hz is: frequency = speed of light / wavelength. Since light travels at approximately 3 x 108 meters per second, and 1 nm equals 1 x 10-9 meters, we first convert nm to meters then divide.
For example, with 400 nm: wavelength in meters = 400 x 10-9 m = 4 x 10-7 m. Now, frequency = 3 x 108 / 4 x 10-7 = 7.5 x 1014 Hz.
Conversion Example
- Example 1: Convert 500 nm:
- Wavelength in meters = 500 x 10-9 = 5 x 10-7
- Frequency = 3 x 108 / 5 x 10-7 = 6 x 1014 Hz
- Example 2: Convert 600 nm:
- Wavelength in meters = 600 x 10-9 = 6 x 10-7
- Frequency = 3 x 108 / 6 x 10-7 = 5 x 1014 Hz
- Example 3: Convert 350 nm:
- Wavelength in meters = 350 x 10-9 = 3.5 x 10-7
- Frequency = 3 x 108 / 3.5 x 10-7 ≈ 8.57 x 1014 Hz
Conversion Chart
This table shows the frequency in Hz for wavelengths ranging from 375 nm to 425 nm in 10 nm intervals. Use it to quickly estimate the frequency for specific wavelengths within this range.
| Wavelength (nm) | Frequency (Hz) |
|---|---|
| 375 | 8.00 x 1014 |
| 385 | 7.79 x 1014 |
| 395 | 7.59 x 1014 |
| 405 | 7.41 x 1014 |
| 415 | 7.23 x 1014 |
| 425 | 7.06 x 1014 |
To read the chart, find the wavelength in nm on the left column, then look across to see the corresponding frequency in Hz. It helps to estimate or compare wavelengths and their frequencies quickly.
Related Conversion Questions
- What is the frequency in Hz of light with a wavelength of 400 nm?
- How do I convert 400 nm to Hz for electromagnetic spectrum analysis?
- What is the wavelength in nanometers for a frequency of 750 million Hz?
- Can I use this tool to convert other wavelengths to Hz?
- Why does shorter wavelength correspond to higher Hz in light waves?
- How accurate is the conversion from nm to Hz for visible light?
- What is the relationship between wavelength in nm and frequency in Hz?
Conversion Definitions
nm: Nanometer (nm) is a unit of length equal to one billionth of a meter, used mainly to measure light wavelengths, especially in the visible spectrum.
hz: Hertz (Hz) is a unit of frequency indicating how many wave cycles pass a point per second, used to measure electromagnetic wave frequencies like light.
Conversion FAQs
How does wavelength in nm relate to color in the visible spectrum?
Wavelengths determine light color; shorter wavelengths (around 400 nm) appear violet, while longer wavelengths (around 700 nm) appear red. The 400 nm wavelength corresponds to violet light, with high frequency.
Is the conversion from nm to Hz affected by medium or environmental factors?
No, the conversion based on the speed of light applies in vacuum or air. Medium can slightly alter light speed, but standard conversion assumes vacuum conditions for accuracy.
Why is the frequency calculation important in physics?
Frequency helps in understanding wave behavior, energy, and interactions. In optics, it relates to photon energy; in communications, it determines signal transmission properties.
Can I convert infrared or ultraviolet wavelengths using this method?
Yes, the same formula applies to all electromagnetic wavelengths, including infrared and ultraviolet, by inputting their specific nm values for frequency calculations.