Periodic Motion and Waves

Frequency is the number of waves that pass a fixed point in unit time; also, the number of cycles or vibrations undergone during one unit of time by a body in periodic motion.

lowercase f represent frequency.

f = v/λ ( frequency = velocity/wavelength )

Units = Hz or Hertz

Wavelength is the distance between corresponding points of two consecutive waves.

Lambda greek letter representswavelength (  $\lambda$  )

 $\lambda$  = v/f  ( wavelength = velocity / frequency

Amplitude is the maximum displacement or distance moved by a point on a vibrating body or wave measured from its equilibrium position.

Period is the amount of time an object takes to make one complete wavelength.

T represents period

T = 1/f ( Period = 1 cycle/ frequency )

units = s, min, hrs, ......etc.

Crest is the point on the medium that exhibits the maximum amount of positive or upward displacement from the rest position.

Trough is the lowest point below the rest position.

Wave height is between the crest and the trough.