Enter the frequency and speed of light into the calculator to determine the wavenumber. This calculator can also evaluate any of the variables given the others are known.

Hz To Cm-1 Formula

The following formula is used to calculate the conversion from frequency (Hz) to wavenumber (cm-1).

W = f / c

Variables:

  • W is the wavenumber (cm-1)
  • f is the frequency (Hz)
  • c is the speed of light (cm/s), approximately 3 x 10^10 cm/s

To calculate the wavenumber, divide the frequency by the speed of light. The result is the wavenumber in inverse centimeters (cm-1).

What is Hz To Cm-1?

Hz to cm-1 is a conversion from frequency (Hertz) to wavenumber (inverse centimeters). This conversion is often used in the field of spectroscopy, where the wavenumber is a measure of the number of wavelengths per unit distance, typically centimeters. The conversion factor is based on the speed of light, as frequency and wavenumber are both properties of waves, including light waves.

How to Calculate Hz To Cm-1?

The following steps outline how to calculate the Hz To Cm-1 using the formula: W = f / c


  1. First, determine the frequency (f) in Hz.
  2. Next, determine the speed of light (c) in cm/s.
  3. Next, use the formula W = f / c to calculate the wavenumber (W) in cm-1.
  4. Finally, calculate the Hz To Cm-1.
  5. After inserting the variables and calculating the result, check your answer with the calculator above.

Example Problem : 

Use the following variables as an example problem to test your knowledge.

frequency (f) = 500 Hz

speed of light (c) = 3 x 10^10 cm/s