Frequency
| Formula / Notation | ν = c/λ; E = hν |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | Wave frequency, ν, Hz, cycles per second, angular frequency ω (related) |
What is Frequency?
The number of complete wave cycles per unit time, measured in hertz (Hz = cycles per second). For electromagnetic radiation, frequency is related to wavelength by c = λν, where c is the speed of light. Higher frequency radiation (UV, X-rays) carries more energy per photon.
Formula & Notation
Other Names / Synonyms: Wave frequency, ν, Hz, cycles per second, angular frequency ω (related)
Properties & Characteristics
Uses & Applications
Safety Information
Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.
Key Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
The number of complete wave cycles per unit time, measured in hertz (Hz = cycles per second). For electromagnetic radiation, frequency is related to wavelength by c = λν, where c is the speed of light. Higher frequency radiation (UV, X-rays) carries more energy per photon.
Frequency is central to all spectroscopy: UV-Vis (10¹⁴–10¹⁵ Hz), IR (10¹²–10¹⁴ Hz), NMR (10⁷–10⁹ Hz), microwave (10⁹–10¹² Hz). Photon energy (E = hν) determines its ability to cause photochemical reactions, ionise atoms, or excite molecular vibrations. Resonance frequencies identify functional group…
High-frequency (high-energy) radiation (UV, X-rays, gamma rays) is ionising and causes DNA damage, radiation burns, and cancer. Lower-frequency radiation (IR, microwave, radio waves) is non-ionising but can cause tissue heating at high intensity. Always use appropriate shielding for the frequency ra…
The formula or notation for Frequency is: ν = c/λ; E = hν