Wavenumber converter

Convert reciprocal wavelength used in spectroscopy and wave physics. Use the interactive converter to enter your own value and select any supported pair in this family.

Popular conversions

Use the interactive converter to enter your own value and select any supported pair in this family.

Supported units (7)

Each row links to the live converter. The factor column uses the family’s stated base unit for linear families; for specialized reciprocal or numeral systems, use the live converter and the family-specific explanation.

Source unitFactor to base unitTool
reciprocal meter
m-1
1Convert this unit ↗
reciprocal centimeter
cm-1
100Convert this unit ↗
reciprocal millimeter
mm-1
1000Convert this unit ↗
reciprocal micrometer
um-1
1000000Convert this unit ↗
reciprocal nanometer
nm-1
1000000000Convert this unit ↗
reciprocal inch
in-1
39.37007874Convert this unit ↗
reciprocal foot
ft-1
3.280839895Convert this unit ↗

Important note

Unit standards, historical definitions and approximations can vary. Cooking volume-to-mass conversions depend on the ingredient; currencies require an exchange rate; sizing systems may be discrete; and logarithmic quantities such as decibels need purpose-built formulas rather than a linear scale.

For laboratory, medical, aviation, engineering or other safety-critical work, verify the definitions and standards that apply to your use case.