waves

Crest

The highest point of a wave.

Trough

The lowest point of a wave.

Wave Pulse

A single, short disturbance that moves through a medium.

Wavelength

The distance between two crests or two troughs.

Frequency

How many waves pass a point in one second, measured in Hertz (Hz).

Period

The time it takes for one full wave to pass a point.

Amplitude

The height of the wave from its resting position.

Standing Wave

A wave that appears not to move.

Transverse Waves

Waves where particles move perpendicular to the wave direction.

Longitudinal Waves

Waves where particles move parallel to the wave direction.

Surface Waves

Waves that exhibit a combination of perpendicular and parallel motion.