Wave Properties Simulator
Explore how changing amplitude, frequency, and wave type affects the appearance and behavior of waves.
Controls the height of the wave
Controls how many waves appear
Changes the shape of the wave
Wave Properties
Amplitude
The maximum displacement from the rest position (height of the wave). In sound waves, amplitude determines volume. In light waves, amplitude relates to brightness.
Frequency
The number of complete waves that pass a point in one second, measured in hertz (Hz). In sound waves, frequency determines pitch. In light waves, frequency determines color.
Wavelength
The distance between two consecutive crests or troughs. Wavelength is inversely proportional to frequency—as frequency increases, wavelength decreases.
Wave Types
Sine Wave
The most fundamental wave form, representing simple harmonic motion. Pure tones in sound are sine waves. Light waves are also sinusoidal.
Square Wave
Alternates between two fixed values. Square waves contain many harmonics and sound "buzzy" or "harsh." They're common in digital electronics.
Triangle Wave
Rises and falls linearly between two values. Triangle waves sound "hollow" compared to sine waves but "softer" than square waves.
Real-World Applications
Understanding wave properties is essential for many technologies and natural phenomena:
- Sound: Musical instruments produce different wave patterns. A flute produces nearly pure sine waves, while a saxophone produces more complex waves.
- Light: Different wavelengths of light appear as different colors. The visible spectrum ranges from red (longer wavelength) to violet (shorter wavelength).
- Radio: AM (Amplitude Modulation) and FM (Frequency Modulation) radio use different wave properties to encode information.
- Medical: Ultrasound imaging uses high-frequency sound waves. X-rays and MRIs use different types of electromagnetic waves.