What is the bottom point of a wave called?

The bottom point of a wave is referred to as the trough. In wave terminology, the trough is the lowest point in the wave cycle, representing a point of minimum displacement from the equilibrium position. It is critical in understanding wave behavior, as the full cycle of a wave consists of both its peak (crest) and its lowest point (trough).

When visualizing a typical wave, such as those seen in water or sound waves, the crest represents the highest point, while the trough signifies the lowest. Understanding these terms is vital for analyzing various wave properties, such as amplitude, which refers to the maximum displacement from the equilibrium position, and frequency, which indicates how often a wave oscillates in a given time frame. Thus, recognizing that the trough is the bottom point helps in grasping the overall structure and characteristics of wave phenomena.