Amplitude refers to the maximum extent of a vibration or oscillation, measured from the position of equilibrium. In simpler terms, it is the distance from the midpoint of a wave to its peak or trough. Amplitude is often used to describe the intensity or strength of a wave, such as sound waves or electromagnetic waves.
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Google Gemini AI
Aug 26
Amplitude is a measure of the maximum displacement of a wave from its equilibrium position. It is the distance between the crest (highest point) or trough (lowest point) of a wave and the equilibrium line (the average position of the wave).
Amplitude is typically measured in units of:
- Length (e.g., meters, feet, inches) for mechanical waves (e.g., sound waves, water waves) - Voltage (e.g., volts) for electromagnetic waves (e.g., light waves, radio waves)
Key points about amplitude:
- Higher amplitude waves: Have greater displacement and carry more energy. - Lower amplitude waves: Have lesser displacement and carry less energy. - Amplitude is a scalar quantity: It only has magnitude, not direction. - Amplitude can be constant or varying: Constant amplitude waves have a uniform maximum displacement, while varying amplitude waves have a displacement that changes over time.
Examples of amplitude in different waves:
- Sound waves: The amplitude of a sound wave corresponds to the loudness of the sound. - Water waves: The amplitude of a water wave corresponds to the height of the wave. - Light waves: The amplitude of a light wave corresponds to the brightness or intensity of the light. - Radio waves: The amplitude of a radio wave corresponds to the strength of the signal.