The energy of a wave, such as light or any electromagnetic radiation, is inversely related to its wavelength. This means that as the wavelength of a wave gets shorter, its energy increases. The relationship between wavelength and energy is described by the equation: E=hcλE = \frac{hc}{\lambda}
Where:
- EE is the energy of the wave,
- hh is Planck’s constant (6.626×10−34 J\cdotps6.626 \times 10^{-34} \, \text{J·s}),
- cc is the speed of light (3.00×108 m/s3.00 \times 10^8 \, \text{m/s}),
- λ\lambda is the wavelength of the wave.
In simple terms:
- Shorter wavelength (like ultraviolet or X-rays) means higher energy.
- Longer wavelength (like infrared or radio waves) means lower energy.
So, when the wavelength decreases, the energy increases, and vice versa. This is a fundamental principle in understanding electromagnetic radiation and its interactions with matter!