WAVELENGTH Meaning and
Definition
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Wavelength is a term used in physics and wave theory to describe the distance between two consecutive points in a wave that are in phase, or have the same position in their respective cycles. It is commonly denoted by the Greek letter lambda (λ).
In simpler terms, wavelength refers to the length of one complete wave cycle. It can be measured from any point on a wave to the corresponding point on the next wave, usually from crest to crest, trough to trough, or any other consecutive identical points. For example, in a visible light wave, it measures the distance between two adjacent peaks.
Wavelength is inversely proportional to the frequency of a wave, with the relationship given by the equation: wavelength = speed of light / frequency. This equation demonstrates that as the frequency increases, the wavelength decreases, and vice versa.
Wavelength plays a crucial role in determining the properties and characteristics of different types of waves, such as electromagnetic waves (including light waves and radio waves), sound waves, and water waves. It directly affects the energy, propagation, and behavior of these waves. For instance, different wavelengths of light are responsible for the different colors we perceive, and radio waves with longer wavelengths can pass through obstacles better than those with shorter wavelengths.
Understanding and measuring wavelengths are fundamental to fields like optics, acoustics, and telecommunications. The concept of wavelength helps scientists and engineers analyze, manipulate, and exploit the characteristics of waves for a wide range of applications in various industries and technologies.
Top Common Misspellings for WAVELENGTH *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for WAVELENGTH
Etymology of WAVELENGTH
The word "wavelength" originated from the combination of two words: "wave" and "length".
The term "wave" comes from the Old English word "wæg" or "wǣg", meaning "a wave or billow of water". It can be traced further back to the Proto-Germanic word "*wagaz".
The word "length" derives from the Old English word "lengðu", influenced by the Proto-Germanic word "*langitho", which means "long".
Therefore, the concept of "wavelength" emerged by associating the characteristic of "length" with the property of "wave", resulting in the term we use today to describe the distance between two successive points on a wave.
Idioms with the word WAVELENGTH
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be on the same wavelength
The idiom "be on the same wavelength" means to have a shared understanding or similar way of thinking with someone else. It suggests that two or more people are in agreement or have a harmonious connection, as if they are mentally or emotionally attuned to the same frequency.
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on the same wavelength
The idiom "on the same wavelength" refers to two or more people who understand each other well, have similar ideas, opinions, or thoughts, and are able to communicate effectively without much effort or misunderstanding.
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