A wave is a movement or oscillation that spreads from a defined point, moving energy as it progresses.
Scientist use a standard set of terminology to describe the feature of waves. The following illustration shows a cross-section through a transverse wave. Use the switches below the main window to label the features:
Wavelength: 10 m
Waveheight: 10 m
Amplitude: 5 m
Waveheight: 10 m
Amplitude: 5 m
Click buttons below to label features:
Definitions
- Crest - the highest point in the wave.
- Trough - the lowest point in the wave.
- Wavelength - the horizontal distance between successive crests, troughs or other parts of a wave.
- Wave height - the vertical distance between the crest of a wave and its neighboring trough. This term is commonly used when describing water waves where the undisturbed surface is not easily determined.
- Amplitude - the amount of displacement from the equilibrium or rest position. Equal to one half the wave height.
- Undisturbed surface - resting state or equilibrium position of medium in the absence of a wave.
- Period - the time it takes for successive crests or troughs to pass a specific point.
- Frequency - the inverse of period.The number of crests or troughs that pass a point during a set time interval.
Test your understanding with Features of a wave concept questions.
Video demonstration
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