1. Calculating Wave Properties

2. Wave Length Measurement from one point to the next similar point
Transverse: crest to crest, trough to trough, node to node, etc
Longitudinal: compression to compression, rarefaction to rarefaction
SI Unit: meters (m)
Represented in equation with the Greek symbol lambda (λ)

3. Wave Period
The amount of time it takes for a wave to complete one cycle (crest to next crest)
SI Unit: second (s)
Represented by “T” in equations
Can be calculated if you know the frequency using the equation:
T = 1/f
Can also be directly measured

4. Wave Frequency
Number waves that pass a given point in a second
SI Unit: Hertz (Hz)
1 Hz = 1 wave/second
Represented by “f” in the equation
Can be calculated from the period:
f = 1/T

5. vw = λf Wave Speed The rate at which a wave moves
SI Unit: meters per second (m/s)
Represented by “vw” in equations
Can be calculated by multiplying frequency and wavelength
vw = λf
Can also be calculated as “normal” speed would:
vw = d/t