Wave Properties
Define amplitude, wavelength, frequency and wave speed.
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Waves transfer energy without transferring matter.
In this lesson you will:
- Label a wave diagram.
- Calculate wave speed.
- Distinguish transverse and longitudinal waves.
Describing a Wave
A wave has a crest (highest point) and a trough (lowest point).
- Amplitude — height from the middle to a crest; it shows the energy carried.
- Wavelength (λ) — distance between successive crests.
- Frequency (f) — number of waves passing a point each second, in hertz (Hz).
- Period (T) — time for one wave; T = 1 ÷ f.
Transverse and Longitudinal
In a transverse wave, particles vibrate at right angles to the direction of travel (light, water waves). In a longitudinal wave, particles vibrate along the direction of travel (sound).
The Wave Equation
wave speed = frequency × wavelength, or v = f λ.
Worked example
A wave has frequency 50 Hz and wavelength 2 m.
v = f λ = 50 × 2 = 100 m/s.
Tip Frequency and wavelength are inversely related when wave speed is constant. Higher frequency means shorter wavelength.
Practice
- Label amplitude and wavelength on a wave diagram.
- A wave has frequency 20 Hz and wavelength 5 m. Find its speed.
- Explain the difference between a transverse and a longitudinal wave.
Recap
Waves transfer energy. Amplitude measures energy, wavelength measures length, and v = f λ links speed, frequency and wavelength.
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