What is phase or phase angle in wave motion

In wave motion, phase or phase angle refers to the position of a point on a waveform relative to a reference point. It describes the fraction of a wave cycle that has elapsed relative to an arbitrary point. Phase is usually measured in degrees or radians.

The phase of a wave can be used to describe the relationship between two or more waveforms at a given point in time. When waves are in phase, their crests and troughs line up perfectly; when waves are out of phase, their crests and troughs do not line up.

Phase can also be used to describe the relative timing between different components of a wave, such as the amplitude or frequency. This information can be useful in analyzing and manipulating waveforms in various applications, such as signal processing or communications.