Wavelength is one of the important characteristics of a waveform apart from amplitude, velocity and frequency. It is good to know about this property and related topics like the definition, unit of wavelength, amongst others. Besides, knowing these things will help students gain a clear understanding of the overall concept of waves.
A wavelength is defined as the distance between the maximum displacement of amplitude from equilibrium. 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.
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 | centimeter (cm) |
| Dimensional formula | M0L1T0 |
SI Unit of Wavelength
The SI unit of wavelength is meter usually denoted as m. While measuring wavelength the multiples or fractions of a meter 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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