What do we call the highest point of an oscillating wave?

The highest point of an oscillating wave is referred to as the crest. In wave terminology, the crest represents the peak position in a wave cycle, where the displacement from the rest position is at its maximum positive value. This is important because in the context of various wave phenomena, understanding the crest helps in analyzing wave properties, energy transmission, and other dynamic behaviors.

Conversely, the trough is the lowest point in the wave cycle, directly contrasting with the crest. Amplitude measures the maximum displacement (from the rest position) in either direction, while wavelength refers to the distance between two successive points that are in phase, such as from crest to crest or trough to trough. Understanding these terms and their functions in wave mechanics is essential for analyzing oscillatory systems in engineering and physics.