What are the key features of a wave?

The key features of a wave are its wavelength, frequency, amplitude, speed, and phase.

A wave is a disturbance that travels through space and matter, transferring energy from one place to another. The key features of a wave are essential in understanding how this energy transfer occurs.

The wavelength is the distance between two identical points on the wave, such as from crest to crest or trough to trough. It is usually measured in metres and is represented by the Greek letter lambda (λ). The wavelength is inversely proportional to the frequency of the wave, meaning that as the wavelength increases, the frequency decreases, and vice versa.

The frequency of a wave is the number of waves that pass a fixed point in a given amount of time. It is measured in hertz (Hz) and is represented by the letter f. The frequency of a wave determines its pitch in the case of sound waves, and its colour in the case of light waves.

The amplitude of a wave is the maximum displacement of the wave from its rest position. It is usually measured in metres and is represented by the letter A. The amplitude of a wave determines its loudness in the case of sound waves, and its brightness in the case of light waves.

The speed of a wave is the rate at which it travels through a medium. It is usually measured in metres per second (m/s) and is represented by the letter v. The speed of a wave is determined by the properties of the medium through which it is travelling.

The phase of a wave refers to the position of a point on the wave cycle at any given moment. It is usually measured in degrees or radians and is represented by the Greek letter phi (φ). The phase of a wave can be used to determine the wave's position and direction of travel.