What is wave period?

Wave period is the time it takes for one complete wave cycle to occur.

In physics, a wave is a disturbance that travels through space and time, transferring energy from one point to another. Waves can be described by their amplitude, wavelength, frequency and period. The period of a wave is the time it takes for one complete cycle to occur, usually measured in seconds. It is the inverse of the frequency, which is the number of cycles that occur in one second.

The period of a wave is determined by the speed of the wave and the distance it travels. For example, if a wave travels a distance of 10 metres in 5 seconds, its period is 5/10 = 0.5 seconds. The period of a wave is important because it determines the wave's frequency, which in turn determines its energy and other properties.

In oceanography, wave period is an important parameter for predicting ocean conditions and wave behaviour. Waves with longer periods are typically associated with larger swells and more powerful surf, while waves with shorter periods are more choppy and less predictable. Understanding wave period is essential for surfers, sailors, and other ocean enthusiasts who need to know how waves will behave in different conditions.