Convert wavelength in millimetres [mm] to terahertz [THz] Online | Free frequency-wavelength Converter

Exploring Microwave and Radio Waves

A millimetre (mm) is a unit of length equal to one-thousandth of a metre (1 mm = 10⁻³ m) and is used to describe longer wavelengths in the electromagnetic spectrum, particularly in the microwave and radio wave regions. Wavelengths in the millimetre range typically span from about 1 mm to 10 mm, corresponding to frequencies between 30 GHz and 300 GHz. This portion of the spectrum is known as the millimetre wave band and is essential in technologies such as 5G wireless networks, radar systems, remote sensing, and satellite communications.

Millimetre waves have the advantage of carrying large amounts of data due to their high frequencies, while still being small enough to use compact antennas. They also play a key role in imaging technologies, such as full-body scanners at airports and automotive collision avoidance systems. In astronomy, millimetre wavelengths are used to study cold cosmic objects like molecular clouds and cosmic microwave background radiation.

Using millimetres to measure wavelength allows for more convenient expression of these longer waves, where nanometres or micrometres would result in large, unwieldy numbers. It’s a vital unit for describing electromagnetic waves used in both advanced technologies and scientific research.

Bridging the Gap Between Microwaves and Infrared

The terahertz (THz) is a unit of frequency equal to 1 trillion hertz (10¹² Hz), or one trillion cycles per second. This frequency range lies between the microwave and infrared regions of the electromagnetic spectrum, often called the "terahertz gap" because it is challenging to generate and detect these waves efficiently.

Terahertz waves have unique properties that make them valuable for a variety of scientific, medical, and security applications. In medical imaging, terahertz radiation can penetrate clothing and other non-metallic materials without the harmful effects associated with X-rays, making it promising for non-invasive diagnostics. In security, terahertz scanners are used to detect concealed weapons and substances at airports.

In physics and material science, terahertz spectroscopy helps analyze molecular structures, chemical compositions, and semiconductor properties with high precision. The high frequency of terahertz waves also makes them useful in ultra-fast wireless communication technologies aiming to provide data transfer rates far beyond current Wi-Fi and 5G speeds.

Despite its potential, terahertz technology is still developing, with ongoing research focused on improving sources and detectors to unlock more practical and widespread applications.