Wavelengths terminology + formulas

Wavelength

Horizontal distance between the crests or between the troughs of two adjacent waves

Amplitude

the maximum height of a wave

Period

the time (seconds) it takes for a wave to repeat its pattern

Frequency

the number of complete wavelengths that pass a point in a second

electromagnetic waves

A form of non-mechanical energy that can move through the vacuum of space

Speed of electromagnetic waves in a vacuum

3.0 x 10^8 m/s

mechanical wave

A wave that requires a medium through which to travel

Non-mechanical wave

Waves that do not require a medium for the transfer of their energy to occur.

Compression

where the particles are close together

Refraction

Where particles are furthest apart

Crest

Highest point of a wave

Trough

Lowest point of a wave

Transverse wave

Vibrations are perpendicular to the direction of the energy's movement

longitudinal wave

Vibrations are parallel to the direction of the energy's movement

frequency formula

f=1/T or f=v/ wavelength

speed of wave formula

v= frequency x wavelength

Wavelength formula

V = speed / frequency