Final answer:
The most commonly used radio frequency with shortwave diathermy is 27.12 MHz. This frequency, along with others like 100 MHz used in MRI units and 915 or 2450 MHz used in microwave ovens, is important in their respective fields for optimal performance.
Step-by-step explanation:
The most common radio frequency used with shortwave diathermy is 27.12 MHz. To clarify diathermy frequencies, let's explore wavelength calculations for various frequencies as applied across medical and consumer applications.
- MRI units typically use 100 MHz, and the wavelength for this frequency can be calculated using the formula λ = c/f, where λ is the wavelength, c is the speed of light (approximately 3×108 m/s), and f is the frequency. Thus, λ = 3×108 m/s / 100×106 Hz = 3 meters.
- When MRI frequencies are swept over a ±1.00 MHz range centered on 100 MHz, the wavelength changes inversely with frequency.
- Microwave ovens often operate at frequencies of either 915 MHz or 2450 MHz. The wavelengths for these frequencies can also be calculated using the same formula, yielding different wavelengths that influence heating patterns in the food.
- Understanding the traits of specific radio wave frequencies is crucial for different applications, such as optimizing antenna length for broadcast efficiency or understanding cellular signal transmission.
For example, a campus radio station broadcasting at 97.2 MHz would have a carrier wave wavelength calculated as follows: λ = 3×108 m/s / 97.2×106 Hz, which is approximately 3.086 meters.