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Photon Energy from Wavelength Calculator

⚛ Atomic & Quantum. Use the Photon energy from wavelength formula to find energy, wavelength λ: pick the value you want, type the others, and the answer updates as you go.

E=hcλE = \dfrac{hc}{\lambda}
Energy3.97 × 10⁻¹⁹ J

Pick the ○ next to the value you want to find, fill in the others, and it solves as you type.

What each letter means

QuantityUnit
EnergyJ
Wavelength λnm

Worked example

Find the energy when Wavelength λ = 500 nm.

Using E = hc/λ: Energy = 3.97 × 10⁻¹⁹ J.

Frequently asked questions

What is the formula for Photon energy from wavelength?

E = hc/λ.

What do the letters stand for, and what units are used?

Energy in J, Wavelength λ in nm.

How do you calculate energy?

Put the values into E = hc/λ. For example, with Wavelength λ = 500 nm, energy = 3.97 × 10⁻¹⁹ J.

Can I solve for a different value?

Yes. In the calculator above, pick the circle next to any value (energy, wavelength λ) and fill in the others: it rearranges the formula for you.

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