Convert wavelength in hectometres to wavelength in metres [m] Online | Free frequency-wavelength Converter

Describing Very Low Frequency Radio Waves

A hectometre (hm) is a unit of length equal to 100 metres, and it is used to describe very long wavelengths in the Very Low Frequency (VLF) and Low Frequency (LF) bands of the electromagnetic spectrum. Wavelengths in the hectometre range correspond to frequencies between approximately 3 kHz and 3 MHz. These long wavelengths are typically used for maritime navigation, military submarine communication, AM radio broadcasting, and time signal transmissions.

For example, a signal at 300 kHz has a wavelength of 1 kilometre, or 10 hectometres, and a signal at 1 MHz corresponds to 3 hectometres. These long wavelengths have the unique ability to travel long distances and penetrate water and the ground, which is why they are used in submarine communications and emergency broadcast systems.

Using hectometres to express wavelength offers a practical scale for understanding wave propagation over great distances. It also aids in antenna design, where very large antennas—often hundreds of metres long—are needed to efficiently transmit or receive these frequencies. Understanding wavelength in hectometres is important in geophysics, radio astronomy, and large-scale communications infrastructure.

Measuring Long Electromagnetic Waves

The metre (m) is the standard SI unit of length and is widely used to express longer wavelengths of electromagnetic radiation, particularly in the radio wave portion of the spectrum. Wavelengths in the metre range correspond to frequencies from about 3 MHz to 300 MHz, covering parts of the VHF (Very High Frequency) and HF (High Frequency) bands. Common applications include AM and FM radio broadcasting, marine and aviation communication, shortwave radio, and amateur (ham) radio.

For example, an AM radio station transmitting at 1 MHz has a wavelength of 300 metres, while FM radio at 100 MHz corresponds to a 3-metre wavelength. These long wavelengths can travel great distances, diffract around obstacles, and reflect off the ionosphere, making them ideal for long-range communication.

Using metres to describe wavelength is particularly helpful in large-scale systems like radio towers and antennas, where antenna size often relates directly to a fraction of the wavelength. Understanding wavelengths in metres allows engineers and technicians to design effective communication systems, optimize signal coverage, and analyze wave behavior over long distances.