What refers to the distance from the peak of one light or sound wave to the peak of the next?

The term that refers to the distance from the peak of one light or sound wave to the peak of the next is wavelength. Wavelength is a critical concept in both physics and psychology, specifically in understanding how we perceive different forms of energy, such as light and sound.

In the context of light waves, for instance, the wavelength determines the color of the light. Shorter wavelengths correspond to colors like violet and blue, while longer wavelengths correspond to reds and oranges. In sound waves, the wavelength is related to the pitch we hear; shorter wavelengths produce higher pitches, and longer wavelengths yield lower pitches.

This concept is foundational in the study of waves, impacting how various phenomena are understood in psychological processes related to perception. Understanding wavelength can help explain the differences in sensory experiences, such as how we perceive colors in visual stimuli or musical notes in auditory stimuli.