Question

for a wave, what term is defined as the time elapsed between two successive crests, or two successive troughs, passing by the same point in space?

wavelength
amplitude
wave velocity
period
frequency

Explanation:

Analyze the definition of wave properties

The question asks for the term defined as the time elapsed between two successive crests, or two successive troughs, passing by the same point in space.

• wavelength: The spatial distance between two successive crests or troughs.
• amplitude: The maximum displacement of a point on a wave from its equilibrium position.
• wave velocity: The speed at which the wave profile propagates through space.
• period: The time required for one complete wave cycle (the passage of two successive crests or troughs) to pass a given point in space.
• frequency: The number of complete wave cycles passing a given point per unit time.

Identify the correct term

The definition describes a time interval for one complete cycle to pass a fixed point, which corresponds to the wave period.

Answer:

• wavelength
• amplitude
• wave velocity
• period (Correct answer)
• frequency