When drawn on a coordinate plane with the x-axis as the baseline, a wave with a crest that is closer to the baseline has a smaller _____.
A frequency
B amplitude
C equilibrium
D wavelength
The correct answer is D) wavelength.
When drawn on a coordinate plane, a wave with a crest that is closer to the baseline has a smaller wavelength.
To determine the answer, let's understand the terms mentioned in the question:
1. Frequency: The frequency of a wave refers to the number of complete oscillations or cycles it makes in a given time. It is measured in hertz (Hz).
2. Amplitude: The amplitude of a wave is the maximum displacement or distance from the equilibrium position to the crest or trough. In simpler terms, it represents the height of the wave.
3. Equilibrium: The equilibrium position is the resting or zero position of a wave where there is no displacement.
4. Wavelength: The wavelength of a wave is the distance between two corresponding points on the wave, such as between two adjacent crests or troughs.
Now, according to the question, a wave is drawn on a coordinate plane with the x-axis as the baseline. The term "closer to the baseline" implies that the crest of the wave is situated at a smaller distance from the x-axis.
Since the crest is closer to the baseline, the crest's displacement is smaller, and thus the amplitude is smaller. Therefore, the correct answer is B) amplitude.