Wavelength Units

[amogha_koka3I]

When answering questions about wavelengths, is it best to write the units as meters or nanometers?

[Jonathan Zhao 4H]

Using nanometers would be better for wavelength.

[Karishma_1G]

It is better to use meters during calculations so that you can ensure that your units cancel out properly (ex: 1 joule is kg x m^2 x s^-2). However, when writing your final answer, it is better to use nanometers so that you don't need scientific notation. Hope this helps!

[804991762_4A]

In my preference, I find it easier to write the unit in terms of nanometers. Also If you want to convert meters to nanometers all you have to do is take the given meter and multiply it by 1nm/10^-9 m
Example:
(7.10 x 10^-7 m) x (1nm/10^-9m)

[Kelsey Li 3B]

Since wavelengths are so small, using nanometers would better suit the answer in units. However, when you are solving the problem I would suggest sticking to meters or at least the same unit throughout so you don't have any complications. Just like what 804991762_4A said, you can convert meters to nanometers by multiplying 1nm/10^-9 m. Hope this helps!

[Esther Lee 4H]

I find it easier to change units in the end since there's less of a chance of messing up the entire equation when you do it at the end compared to the beginning.