Converting Nanometers to Joules

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<h3>Converting Nanometers to Joules</h3>

Nanometers measure the length of very small magnitudes, such as wavelengths. A joule, abbreviated as J, is a unit of energy in the metric system. The conversion between nanometers and joules is important in physics because scientists often need to calculate the energy of electromagnetic radiation from the wavelength. To do this, you apply the following formula derived from Planck’s equation:

(E=frac{hc}{lambda})



1. Identify Planck Constant Value

Retrieve the Planck constant value: h = 6.626 069 57 x10-34 J s.

2. Use Speed of Light Constant

Get the speed of light constant: c = 299,792,458 m/s.

3. Multiply Planck by Speed of Light

Multiply the Planck constant by the speed of light. Work out:

(hc=6.62606957 times 10^{-34}times 299,792,458 = 1.98645 times 10^{-25}text{ Jm})



4. Calculate Wavelength in Meters

Divide the wavelength in nanometers by 109 to calculate the value in meters. For example, the wavelength of 500 nm corresponds to:

(frac{500}{10^9}=5times 10^{-7}text{ m})

5. Divide Product of Constants by Wavelength

Divide the product of the constants by the wavelength in meters to calculate the energy in Joules. In this example, the energy is:



(E=frac{1.98645times 10^{-25}}{5times 10^{-7}}=3.973times 10^{-19}text{ J})

Dave Pennells

By Dave Pennells

Dave Pennells, MS, has contributed his expertise as a career consultant and training specialist across various fields for over 15 years. At City University of Seattle, he offers personal career counseling and conducts workshops focused on practical job search techniques, resume creation, and interview skills. With a Master of Science in Counseling, Pennells specializes in career consulting, conducting career assessments, guiding career transitions, and providing outplacement services. Her professional experience spans multiple sectors, including banking, retail, airlines, non-profit organizations, and the aerospace industry. Additionally, since 2001, he has been actively involved with the Career Development Association of Australia.