The high point of a wave is called its crest, while the low point is called the trough.
Understand the Problem
The question is making a statement about the terminology used to describe the high and low points of a wave. It identifies 'crest' as the high point and 'trough' as the low point.
Answer
A wave's high point is its crest, and its low point is its trough.
The high point of a wave is called its crest, while the low point is called the trough.
Answer for screen readers
The high point of a wave is called its crest, while the low point is called the trough.
More Information
In the context of waves, the crest represents the maximum positive displacement from the equilibrium position. Conversely, the trough is the maximum negative displacement. These terms are crucial in understanding wave dynamics, including wave height and wavelength.
Tips
A common mistake is confusing wave height with amplitude. Wave height measures the entire vertical change between crest and trough, while amplitude is half of that measure.
Sources
- Anatomy of a Wave - The Physics Classroom - physicsclassroom.com
- Crest and Trough - Wikipedia - en.wikipedia.org
- Crest and Trough - NOAA - oceanservice.noaa.gov
