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

The term for the highest point of a wave is "crest." In wave terminology, the crest represents the peak or the highest elevation point of the wave above the still water level. Understanding this concept is important for grasping various aspects of wave behavior, energy transfer in water bodies, and coastal dynamics.

In the context of ocean waves, the crest is significant because it indicates where the wave's energy is concentrated at its maximum height. This is particularly important in the study of waves as it influences wave breaking, navigation, and coastal processes.

The other terms mentioned relate to different features of waves. The trough refers to the lowest point of a wave, wave base is the depth at which the wave's energy no longer affects the water column, and wave height measures the vertical distance between the crest and the trough. Each term plays a role in understanding wave characteristics and behaviors, but the crest specifically denotes the highest point.