What describes the distance between two consecutive crests or troughs in a wave?

The distance between two consecutive crests or troughs in a wave is referred to as the wavelength. Wavelength is a fundamental property of waves, indicating the physical length of one complete cycle of the wave pattern. It is measured from one crest to the next or from one trough to the next.

The concept of wavelength is crucial as it determines various characteristics of the wave, including its energy and how it interacts with matter. For example, in sound waves, longer wavelengths correspond to lower frequencies and pitches, while in light waves, different wavelengths correspond to different colors. Understanding wavelength helps in various applications, including telecommunications, acoustics, and optics.

Amplitude refers to the height of the wave, indicating its energy level, while frequency relates to how many wave cycles occur in a given time period. Wave velocity is the speed at which the wave travels through a medium. Each of these properties affects the wave but does not define the distance between consecutive crests or troughs.