What is the term for the highest point of a wave?

The term for the highest point of a wave is referred to as the crest. In wave terminology, the crest is defined as the peak or topmost part of the wave that is above the equilibrium position. This is where the wave reaches its maximum height, making it a critical point for understanding various wave properties, such as energy transfer and amplitude.

Understanding the other terms provides clarity on their distinctions: the trough represents the lowest point of the wave, opposite to the crest; amplitude measures the height of the wave from the midpoint to the crest or trough, indicating the wave's strength or intensity; and wavelength refers to the distance between successive crests or troughs, determining the wave's spatial frequency. Each term has a specific role in wave properties, but the correct identification of the highest point is the crest.