HESI A17
HESI A2 Chemistry Practice Test
1. What is defined as the distance between adjacent peaks or adjacent troughs on a wave?
- A. Frequency
- B. Wavenumber
- C. Wave oscillation
- D. Wavelength
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Wavelength is correctly defined as the distance between adjacent peaks or adjacent troughs on a wave. It is a crucial characteristic of waves, influencing properties such as color in light waves and pitch in sound waves. By altering the wavelength, significant changes in the wave's perception and attributes can be observed. Choice A, Frequency, refers to the number of occurrences of a repeating event per unit of time and is not related to the distance between peaks or troughs. Choice B, Wavenumber, represents the spatial frequency of a wave in terms of cycles per unit distance, not the distance between adjacent peaks. Choice C, Wave oscillation, does not specifically define the distance between adjacent peaks or troughs but rather the movement of a wave back and forth.