A wave is a dynamic disturbance that propagates and causes a change in the equilibrium of one or more parameters in physics, mathematics, and related subjects. Quantities may oscillate regularly around an equilibrium (resting) value at a certain frequency if a wave is periodic. A traveling wave is one in which the entire waveform moves in one direction; in contrast, a standing wave is one in which two periodic waves are overlaid and move in opposing directions. In a standing wave, there are some points where the wave amplitude seems reduced or even zero, and these positions have null vibration amplitudes. A wave equation (standing wave field comprising two opposing waves) or a one-way wave equation (for single wave propagation in a certain direction) is frequently used to describe waves.
The regular, systematic spread of disturbances from one location to another. The waves that travel on the water’s surface are the most well-known, but waves also exist in sound, light, and the movement of subatomic particles. The disturbance oscillates periodically (see the periodic motion) with a set frequency and wavelength in the simplest waves. While electromagnetic waves (see electromagnetic radiation) do not require a medium to travel through and can move through a vacuum, mechanical waves, like sound, need one. The characteristics of the medium affect how a wave travels through it. also, see a seismic wave
Transverse and longitudinal waves are the two types of waves. While longitudinal waves are similar to those of sound, consisting of alternating compressions and rarefactions in a medium, transverse waves are like those on water, with their surface moving up and down. A transverse wave’s crest and trough are the high and low points, respectively. The compressions and rarefactions of longitudinal waves are comparable to the crests and troughs of transverse waves. The wavelength is the separation between subsequent crests or troughs. The amplitude of a wave is its height. The frequency is the number of crests or troughs that pass a particular location within a given amount of time. A wave’s velocity can be calculated by multiplying its wavelength by its frequency.
