Spectroscopy Wavelength Calculator
Convert between wavelength, frequency, energy, and wavenumber for spectroscopy
Spectroscopy Parameter Conversion
How to Use the Spectroscopy Wavelength Calculator
Getting Started
- Step 1: Select the input parameter type (wavelength, frequency, energy, or wavenumber)
- Step 2: Enter the value and choose the appropriate unit
- Step 3: Select your preferred output units for all parameters
- Step 4: Click Convert to calculate all spectroscopic parameters
Fundamental Relationships
- Wave Equation: c = λν (speed of light = wavelength × frequency)
- Planck Equation: E = hν (energy = Planck constant × frequency)
- Energy-Wavelength: E = hc/λ
- Wavenumber: ν̃ = 1/λ = ν/c
Spectral Regions
- UV (200-400 nm): Electronic transitions, molecular absorption
- Visible (400-750 nm): Electronic transitions, color, photosynthesis
- IR (750 nm-1 mm): Vibrational transitions, molecular fingerprints
- Microwave (1 mm-1 m): Rotational transitions, molecular structure
Common Applications
- UV-Vis Spectroscopy: Concentration determination, Beer-Lambert law
- IR Spectroscopy: Functional group identification, structure analysis
- NMR Spectroscopy: Molecular structure, chemical environment
- Raman Spectroscopy: Vibrational analysis, material characterization
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between wavelength and wavenumber?
Wavelength (λ) is the distance between wave peaks, while wavenumber (ν̃) is the number of waves per unit length (1/λ). Wavenumber is commonly used in IR spectroscopy.
Why do different spectroscopy techniques use different units?
Historical conventions and practical convenience. UV-Vis uses nm (easy visualization), IR uses cm⁻¹ (proportional to energy), and NMR uses Hz or MHz (related to instrument frequency).
How do I convert between energy units?
The calculator handles conversions automatically. Common conversions: 1 eV = 1.602×10⁻¹⁹ J, 1 kJ/mol = 1000 J / 6.022×10²³ molecules.
What determines the color of visible light?
Wavelength determines color: violet (400-450 nm), blue (450-495 nm), green (495-570 nm), yellow (570-590 nm), orange (590-620 nm), red (620-750 nm).
How accurate are these calculations?
Calculations use standard physical constants and are accurate for most spectroscopic applications. Results are limited by input precision and measurement uncertainty.
Can I use this for astronomical spectroscopy?
Yes, the fundamental relationships apply to all electromagnetic radiation. The calculator works for radio waves to gamma rays, though astronomical applications may require additional considerations.
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