Enter the wavelength and the distance to calculate the phase constant of a wave. The phase constant is a measure of the change in phase of the wave per unit distance.

Phase Constant Formula

The following formula is used to calculate the phase constant of a wave:

φ = (2π / λ) * d

Variables:

  • φ is the phase constant (radians/meter)
  • λ is the wavelength of the wave (meters)
  • d is the distance (meters)

To calculate the phase constant, divide 2π by the wavelength and then multiply by the distance the wave has traveled.

What is a Phase Constant?

The phase constant is a parameter that describes the phase shift of a wave per unit distance. It is used in the study of wave phenomena, such as sound waves, light waves, and other types of waves. The phase constant is important in understanding how waves propagate through different media and how they interact with each other.

How to Calculate Phase Constant?

The following steps outline how to calculate the phase constant of a wave:


  1. First, determine the wavelength (λ) of the wave in meters.
  2. Next, determine the distance (d) the wave has traveled in meters.
  3. Use the formula φ = (2π / λ) * d to calculate the phase constant (φ).
  4. Finally, calculate the phase constant (φ) in radians per meter.
  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.

wavelength (λ) = 0.5 meters

distance (d) = 2 meters