Summary
Highlights
Waves transfer energy without transferring matter, similar to a Mexican wave where people move up and down in place. This energy transfer occurs through disturbances or vibrations and can happen in solids, liquids, gases, and even vacuums.
Frequency is the number of complete waves passing a fixed point per second. It's symbolized by 'F' and measured in Hertz (Hz). For example, if five complete waves pass in one second, the frequency is 5 Hz. It illustrates how often something happens.
The period of a wave is the time it takes for one complete cycle to occur, measured in seconds. Unlike frequency, which is 'how often', the period is 'how long' it takes. Examples include the Earth's orbit around the sun (365 days) or a typical class at school (45 minutes).
Wavelength is the distance between a point on one wave and the same point on the next wave, such as from peak to peak or trough to trough. It is represented by the Greek letter Lambda (λ) and is typically measured in meters. Wavelengths can vary significantly, from short X-rays to long FM radio waves.
Amplitude is the maximum disturbance from the undisturbed position caused by a wave. It can be visualized as the height of a wave's peak from a flat, calm sea.