Wavelength is one of the important characteristics of a waveform apart from amplitude, velocity and frequency.
| Table of Contents |
What Is Wavelength?
Wavelength can be defined as the distance between two successive crests or troughs of a wave. It is the space generated in a periodic wave—the distance over which the wave’s shape is repeated. It is usually measured or determined by taking the distance between corresponding points of the same phase or different spatial wave patterns.
Symbol And Units of Wavelength
Wavelength is commonly expressed by the symbol λ, which is actually a Greek letter known as lambda. Now that we have covered what is a wavelength, let’s get into the units.
Following is the table with different units of wavelength:
| SI unit of wavelength | metre (m) |
| CGS unit of wavelength | centimetre (cm) |
| Dimensional formula | M0L1T0 |
SI Unit of Wavelength
The SI unit of wavelength is metre usually denoted as m. While measuring wavelength the multiples or fractions of a metre is also used. Notably, exponential powers of 10 are used when wavelengths are of a large property. When there are shorter wavelengths they are expressed as negative exponential.
Meanwhile, wavelength also shares a great relationship with frequency. For instance, when the frequency increases, the wavelength decreases. You can find out more about the two properties by clicking the link given above.
Related articles:
| Unit Of Sound | Unit Of Frequency |
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The video about the characteristics of sound waves
Frequently Asked Questions – FAQs
What is frequency?
What is wavelength?
Define visible spectrum.
What are the properties of the light waves emitted by the laser?
- They have the same phase
- They have the same amplitude
- They have the same frequency
What are electromagnetic waves?
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Select the correct answer and click on the “Finish” button
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