Scientists were curious to reveal the mystery about the exact behavior of certain elements. They observed that some elements emitted visible light when they get heated in flame. So, understand the chemical behaviour and structure of an atom in detail, they tried to understand the wave nature of light.
What is mean by wave nature of light?
As light is a wave and behave in specific manner, it has certain characteristics. It propagates through the various mediums like vacuum, air, water and some solids. To harness the benefits of light for it is essential to observe and understand their behavior while passing through these different media.
Characteristics of waves
We have seen concentric waves when we throw a stone into still water. This is a type of wave and has specific characteristics that I’m going to explain one by one.
1.The wavelength
Wavelength is represented by ‘λ’ , the Greek letter lambda. It is the shortest distance between two consecutive crest or two troughs of a specific wave. In general, wavelength is the shortest distance between two equivalent points on a wave. It is measured in units micrometer to kilometers. Its SI unit is meter.
2.The frequency
Frequency of a wave is number of waves passing through a point in a second. It is denoted by ‘ν’ the Greek letter nu. Unit of frequency is Heartz and shown by Hz.
For example, frequency of A.C. current in our domestic electric circuit is 50.
3.Amplitude
Amplitude of wave is the maximum distance of a wave form. It is measured from mean point to the crest or trough of on same wave. As it is distance, it is measured in meters.
Amplitude diva wave depends upon the energy or force behind the wave. Greater is the force or energy, higher would be the amplitude.
4. Speed — fourth characteristics
Speed is an average distance covered by wave in unit to me period. Speed of light wave in vacuum is 3 × 10^8 m/s.
Speed of light is the product of wavelength and frequency. In formula it is shown as
c= λν.
Short summary of wave nature of light
Light propagates through the various mediums like vacuum, air, water and some solids.
Wavelength, frequency, amplitude and speed are the characteristics of waves.
Wavelength is the shortest distance between two consecutive crest or two troughs of a specific wave.
When there is a number of waves that are passing through a point in a second is termed as frequency.
Amplitude of wave is the maximum distance of a wave form.
Speed of light is the product of wavelength and frequency.
This is all about the wave nature of light. looks short but concise and relevant.
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