AFOQT Practice Test

Disable ads (and more) with a membership for a one time $2.99 payment

Prepare for the AFOQT Test. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

Practice this question and more.

What does the period of a wave represent?

The height of the wave
The distance between wave crests
The time that it takes for a complete cycle to occur
The speed at which the wave travels

The correct answer is: The time that it takes for a complete cycle to occur

The correct answer is that the period of a wave represents the time it takes for a complete cycle to occur. This is a fundamental characteristic of wave behavior, as the period is directly related to the wave's frequency; they are inversely proportional to each other. A longer period means that the wave takes more time to repeat the same motion, while a shorter period indicates a quicker cycle. In this context, the other options address different aspects of wave properties. The height of a wave refers to its amplitude, which indicates the energy of the wave. The distance between wave crests relates to the wavelength, which measures how far one full cycle of the wave extends in space. Lastly, the speed at which the wave travels is determined by the wavelength and frequency but is not the same as the period itself. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for grasping the different properties of waves.