The distance from one crest to the next is known as what?

The distance from one crest to the next in a wave is termed the wavelength. This measurement reflects the spatial period of a wave, essentially describing how far the wave travels before it begins to repeat itself. In a sinusoidal wave, the crest represents the highest point of the wave in relation to its equilibrium position. Wavelength can also play a crucial role in determining various characteristics of waves, such as their frequency and energy.

The amplitude refers to the maximum displacement of points on a wave from its rest position, which does not involve the distance between crests. Frequency defines how many cycles of the wave occur in a unit of time and is measured in hertz (Hz), while the period is the time it takes for one complete cycle of the wave to pass a given point. Each of these terms relates to different properties of waves, which is why they do not describe the distance from crest to crest.