What is the term for the distance between two points in the same phase in consecutive cycles of a wave?

The term that describes the distance between two points in the same phase in consecutive cycles of a wave is known as wavelength. This measurement indicates how far one cycle of the wave extends in space, specifically from one crest to the next crest or from one trough to the next trough. Wavelength is a fundamental characteristic of waves, whether they are sound waves, light waves, or waves in water, and is typically measured in meters.

Frequency relates to how often a wave completes a cycle in a given amount of time and is not concerned with distance. Amplitude refers to the height of the wave from its rest position, which reflects the energy of the wave but does not measure distance between cycles. The period is the duration of time it takes to complete one cycle, rather than the spatial measurement of the wave itself. Therefore, wavelength correctly identifies the spatial interval between repeated points in the wave's cycle.