Wave Properties
Overview
Wavelength λ: distance between two consecutive identical points in phase (e.g. crest to crest) — unit: m. Frequency f: number of complete waves passing a point per second — unit: Hz. Period T = 1/f: time for one complete wave to pass — unit: s. Amplitude A: maximum displacement from equilibrium. Wave speed v: how fast the wave pattern moves through the medium.
Wave properties: amplitude, wavelength, frequency
A wave transfers energy without transferring matter. Key properties: Amplitude A — maximum displacement from equilibrium (m); related to energy (E ∝ A²). Wavelength λ — distance between two successive identical points (e.g. two crests) in metres. Frequency f — number of complete oscillations per second (Hz). Period T = 1/f. Wave speed v = fλ. These apply to all waves: mechanical, electromagnetic, matter waves.
- ⚠Confusing period T (time per oscillation) with wavelength λ (length per oscillation)
- ⚠Thinking faster wave means higher frequency — frequency depends on source, speed depends on medium