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Physics vocabulary · Waves, Oscillations and Sound

Wavelength

Meaning in physics, with examples

/ˈweɪvleŋθ/nounCore term

In physics, wavelength means: The distance between two neighbouring points on a wave that are at the same stage of their cycle, such as two crests. It is shown by the Greek letter lambda (λ).

In Turkish: dalga boyu

How it is used

Measured in metres, but light is usually given in nanometres (visible light is roughly 400 to 700 nm) and radio in metres or kilometres. The wave equation v = fλ links wavelength, frequency and speed. People say 'short wavelength' and 'long wavelength'.

Example sentences

  1. Red light has a longer wavelength than blue light.

  2. Use the ruler to measure the wavelength of the water waves from one crest to the next.

Common collocations

  • short wavelength
  • long wavelength
  • de Broglie wavelength
  • measure the wavelength
  • frequencyThe number of complete waves or oscillations that pass a point, or happen, each second. It is measured in hertz (Hz), where 1 Hz means one cycle per second.
  • waveA disturbance that travels through a medium or through space and carries energy from one place to another without carrying matter with it.
  • electromagnetic spectrumThe full range of electromagnetic waves, ordered by wavelength or frequency: radio waves, microwaves, infrared, visible light, ultraviolet, X-rays and gamma rays.
  • diffractionThe spreading out of a wave when it passes through a gap or around the edge of an obstacle. It is strongest when the gap is about the same size as the wavelength.
  • amplitudeThe maximum distance that a point on a wave or an oscillating object moves away from its rest position. A larger amplitude means the wave carries more energy.

More terms: Waves, Oscillations and Sound

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