Wave properties

Science

Definition

The fundamental characteristics used to describe all waves, including amplitude (height), wavelength (distance between crests), frequency (number of cycles per second), and speed. These properties apply to mechanical waves like sound and electromagnetic waves like light.

Examples

  • A guitar string vibrating at a higher frequency produces a higher-pitched sound
  • Ocean waves with longer wavelengths travel faster and carry more energy across the open sea
  • Radio stations broadcast at specific frequencies — 101.1 MHz means 101.1 million wave cycles per second
Key Fact

v = fλ (wave speed = frequency × wavelength). Energy is proportional to amplitude squared.

Related Terms

Sound waves Electromagnetic spectrum Interference Standing waves

Study This Concept

Practice wave properties with free review games in these units:

AP Physics 1 Unit 7: Waves and Sound Physics Unit 6: Waves and Sound