A wavelength is a measurement of what?

A wavelength is a fundamental characteristic of electromagnetic waves, which includes light. It denotes the distance between successive peaks (or troughs) of the wave. The measurement of wavelength helps to define various properties of light, including its color, as different wavelengths correspond to different colors in the visible spectrum. For instance, shorter wavelengths correspond to blue light, while longer wavelengths correspond to red light.

Wavelength is a crucial concept in the study of optics and photonics because it influences how light interacts with matter and how it can be manipulated for various applications, such as in lasers, lenses, and other optical devices. Understanding wavelength allows for the analysis of different forms of electromagnetic radiation beyond visible light, including infrared and ultraviolet light, making the concept essential for various scientific and technological fields.