Wave characteristics - SS3 Physics Lesson Note

Waves have a range of properties that influence how the wave interact and behaves with its environment, other waves and various media. These characteristic features are used to describe and evaluate different types of waves and are fundamental to understanding their interaction with the environment in which they occur.  

Amplitude

The amplitude of a wave is defined as the maximum displacement a particle in the medium obtains from its point of rest during wave propagation. It is the measure of the strength or intensity of the wave. It is denoted by “A” and is measured in Meters(m). 

Frequency

The frequency (f) of a wave is the number of complete cycles the wave performs per unit of time. It is the measure of cycles per second and its temporal extent otherwise known as Hertz (Hz). 

Wavelength

Wavelength of a wave refers to the distance between two adjacent crests or troughs along the wave. It is denoted by Lambda (λ) and is the measure of the wave’s spatial extent, enumerated in meters (m). 

 

Velocity

The velocity of a wave is equal to the product of its wavelength and frequency and is independent of its intensity. Thus,  V = λ f

Period

The period of a wave is the time taken for the wave to complete one cycle. It is denoted by “T” and is measured in seconds. It is the reciprocal of the frequency. Thus,  T = 1÷f

Phase

The phase of a wave refers to any one point in a recurring series of motions of the particles constituting a displacement.

Wavefront

The Wavefront of a wave refers to any cross-section of the advancing wave in which all particles are in the same phase.