Wave Terminology

Question 1

Define ‘displacement’ and state its symbol and units.

Answer 1

The distance and direction any part of the wave has moved from its mean/rest/undisturbed position.

Symbol: x
Units: metres (m)

Question 2

Define ‘amplitude’ and state its symbol and units.

Answer 2

The maximum displacement of a wave - the distance from a peak or trough to the mean/rest position.

Symbol: x0
Units: metres (m)

Question 3

Define ‘wavelength’ and state its symbol and units.

Answer 3

The distance between two successive/consecutive identical points that have the same pattern of oscillation, or are in phase - the distance between two consecutive crests or troughs.

Symbol: λ
Units: metres (m)

Question 4

Define ‘(time) period’ and state its symbol and units.

Answer 4

The time taken for one complete pattern of oscillation to take place at any point.

Symbol: T
Units: seconds (s)

Question 5

Define ‘phase difference’ and state its symbol and units.

Answer 5

The difference by which one wave leads/follows another - the relationship/fraction of a cycle between the pattern of vibration at two points.

Symbol: φ
Units: radians (rad)

Question 6

Define ‘frequency’ and state its symbol and units.

Answer 6

The number of complete oscillations per unit time at any point.

Symbol: f
Units: hertz (Hz)