Characteristics of the Waves

The various characteristic properties of the wave are as follows;

1. Wave-Length
The distance between the two consecutive troughs or crests of a wave is known as Wave-length of the wave. It is denoted by λ (Lambda).
2. Frequency
The number of waves made per second is called Frequency. It is denoted by ν (nu) . Its unit is hertz (Hz).
3. Velocity
The distance travelled by a wave in one second is called Velocity of the wave .It is denoted by letter c. The frequency (ν) and wavelength (λ) are related to velocity (c) by the relation:
C = ν λ
4. Wave number
It may be defined as the number of wavelengths per centimeter. It is equal to the inverse of wavelength expressed in centimeters. It is denoted by ν.
ν = 1/λ
5. Amplitude
It is the height of the crest or depth of a trough of a wave. It is generally expressed by the letter ‘a’. The amplitude of a wave determines the intensity of the radiation.