If I am using a ruler to measure the "hot spots" from the microwave experiment and measuring in centimeters but velocity is measured in meters per second...must I make the conversion from centimeters to meter in order for my results to be comparable?
Please advise...
Using Microwaves to measure speed of light...
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Re: Using Microwaves to measure speed of light...
Hello,
If you are comparing the velocity to other data (that is not yours) and it uses meters per second, then I would advise to convert it into the same units (as a comparison between two different units will cause confusion). However, if you are just comparing the data that you found to each other, then I believe that you do not have to convert.
Good luck!
-Regina
If you are comparing the velocity to other data (that is not yours) and it uses meters per second, then I would advise to convert it into the same units (as a comparison between two different units will cause confusion). However, if you are just comparing the data that you found to each other, then I believe that you do not have to convert.
Good luck!
-Regina
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rickmarz
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Re: Using Microwaves to measure speed of light...
anthonyramos - The measured distance between hotspots is 1/2 the wavelength of the signal. You know the frequency of the oven from the manufacturers label. The equation to use is:
Velocity = (frequency in Hz) x (wavelength in meters)
Your result will be velocity in meters/second. You will have to change your measurement in cm to meters for it to be correct.
Rick Marz
Velocity = (frequency in Hz) x (wavelength in meters)
Your result will be velocity in meters/second. You will have to change your measurement in cm to meters for it to be correct.
Rick Marz

