wave

Oscillation caused by a disturbance; as it propagates through a medium (mechanical waves) or a vacuum (electromagnetic waves), it carries energy.

mean position

Horizontal line around which the wave oscillates, carrying energy.

wavelength

Distance between two consecutive crests or troughs; it corresponds to the distance traveled by the wave over time (its period).

displacement

Gap in relation to the mean position.

crest

Highest point of the wave.

trough

Lowest point of the wave.

amplitude

Maximum displacement of a wave in relation to its mean position; it corresponds to the amount of energy transmitted.

propagation

Motion of a wave leaving its source.