How to figure wavelength

1. Feb 7, 2009

phys1618

1. The problem statement, all variables and given/known data
it's stated that 2.5meters separated a trough and an adjacent crest of surfae wave on a lke.

2. Relevant equations

3. The attempt at a solution

At first I thought if the trough to th crest is 2.5meters then i would double that to get the wavelenght from crest to crest. But then when I drew another wave picture, the 2.5 can be the amplitude? so that would make me taking half of the 2.5meters instead?? I think my problrm is not understanding what that statmnt is trying to say. I'm unsure if I would multiply 2.5m by two or divide by half. thanks

2. Feb 7, 2009

Staff: Mentor

That's how I interpreted the problem statement: The horizontal separation between trough and adjacent crest is 2.5 m. (But I admit that it is ambiguous.)

If 2.5 m is the vertical separation between those two points, then you would not be able to find the wavelength (which is what you are asked to find, right?).

3. Feb 7, 2009

phys1618

yes, when i first read it, i thought i should double the 2.5m., but in the statemnt is it referrring it has a standing wave or regular wave? am i thinking too much into the problem? is it as simple as it sounds? =x
but you know, you are right, if 2.5 is the vertical separation between the two, I dont think i can find the wavelenght. so go with the first idea?
thank you for the help.

4. Feb 7, 2009

Yes.

5. Feb 7, 2009

phys1618

=) thank you for your help!