Wavelength

The wavelength of a wave is the distance between two consecutive points that are in phase (for example, two consecutive peaks or troughs) in a wave.

Notation

We typically represente wavelength using the Greek letter lambda: \lambda.

Units

Wavelength is a, well, length, so we measure it in metres (m) - or another derivation of it, such as centimetres.

Calculating wavelength

Wavelength can be calculated using the formula:

\text{Wavelength} = \frac{\text{speed of wave}}{\text{Frequency}}

Or, using symbols:

\lambda = \frac{v}{f}

Where:

flashcards

QuestionAnswer
Wavelength (λ)The distance between two consecutive points that are in phase (e.g., two consecutive peaks or troughs) in a wave.
What is the standard symbol for wavelength?The Greek letter lambda: \lambda.
What units are used to measure wavelength?Metres (m), or a derivation such as centimetres.
How do you calculate wavelength?Wavelength = speed of wave / Frequency, or \lambda = \frac{v}{f}.
What does \lambda represent in the formula \lambda = \frac{v}{f}?Wavelength in metres (m).
What does v represent in the formula \lambda = \frac{v}{f}?Speed of the wave in metres per second (m/s).
What does f represent in the formula \lambda = \frac{v}{f}?Frequency of the wave in hertz (Hz).