Wave Speed Calculator
Enter frequency and wavelength to find wave speed v=f·λ. f=440 Hz, λ=0.78 m → v≈343 m/s (speed of sound in air).
Input Data
Results
At a glance:Wave speed v=f·λ links a wave's frequency f (Hz) and wavelength λ (m) to how fast it travels (m/s). Frequency is set by the source and is unchanged across media; wave speed depends on the medium (and on tension/density for mechanical waves); wavelength adjusts so that v=f·λ holds. Example: the A4 note is f=440 Hz; in air its wavelength is λ≈v/f≈343/440≈0.78 m, giving v≈343 m/s = speed of sound in air. Common speeds: light in vacuum c=3e8 m/s; sound in air ≈343 (20°C, rises ~0.6 m/s per °C); sound in water ≈1480; on a string v=√(T/μ) (T tension, μ linear density). Applications: (1) musical instruments — pipe and string length set λ, hence pitch; (2) sonar and ultrasound — speed in tissue sets depth resolution; (3) radio — knowing f and v gives λ for antenna sizing; (4) DSE Physics wave questions.
Formula
Wave speed: v = f·λ
Frequency: f = v/λ
Wavelength: λ = v/f
Sound in air ≈343 m/s; light c=3e8 m/s
$$v = f\lambda$$How to Use
- Enter frequency f (Hz) and wavelength λ (m).
- The tool returns wave speed v=f·λ.
- Common: 440 Hz × 0.78 m ≈ 343 m/s (air sound).
Case Studies
A4 note in air
f=440 Hz, λ≈0.78 m.
v = f·λ = 440 × 0.78 ≈ 343 m/s.
Matches the speed of sound in air at room temperature.
Content review: Calculatorism Science Team. Results are for reference only; please refer to the relevant authorities for the official figures.