v = f·λ f = v / λ · λ = v / f

Wave Speed: The fundamental wave relationship. This free calculator solves for Wave speed, frequency, wavelength and shows every step.

The physics

Every wave obeys v = fλ: the speed equals how many wavelengths pass per second times their length. Speed is set by the medium — sound travels ~343 m/s in air but far faster in water and steel; light travels at 3 × 10⁸ m/s in vacuum and slows in glass.

Worked example

A tone at f = 256 Hz with λ = 1.34 m in air. v = 256·1.34 ≈ 343 m/s (the speed of sound).

Common uses

Acoustics and music, radio and antenna design, optics, ultrasound, telecommunications.

Frequently asked questions

What is the formula for Wave Speed?

Wave Speed uses the formula v = f·λ. The fundamental wave relationship.

How do you calculate Wave Speed?

Choose which variable to solve for, enter the values you know (in any supported unit), and the calculator substitutes them into v = f·λ and shows every step of the working. It can solve for Wave speed, frequency, wavelength.

Is the Wave Speed calculator free to use?

Yes — every Physics Fundamentals calculator is completely free, with no login, no ads and no usage limits.