Phase Change over Distance: Understanding k and l in Wave Analysis

[spaghetti3451]

kl gives the phase change over a distance l.

I need an explanation.

I understand that k is the wavenumber. In other words, it is a measure of the number of cycles of a wave (in terms of radians) per unit length. Therefore, kl gives the number of cycles traversed over a distance l. How does that mean that kl is the phase change?

 

[tiny-tim]

hi failexam!

I understand that k … is a measure of the number of … radians per unit length. Therefore, kl gives the number of cycles traversed over a distance l. How does that mean that kl is the phase change?

k = radians per length,

so k times length = radians

(and phase is in radians)