Back
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

amplitude

Primary Information
Secondary Information

Definition

Amplitude is the maximum distance that a wave moves from its resting position. It is measured in meters or centimetres. The amplitude of a wave determines its loudness or intensity.

For example, the amplitude of a sound wave is the difference between the maximum pressure of the wave and the minimum pressure of the wave. The larger the amplitude of a sound wave, the louder the sound will be.

The amplitude of a wave can also be used to measure the energy of the wave. The larger the amplitude of a wave, the more energy it will have.

How can the word be used?

The amplitude of a sound wave is the difference between the maximum and minimum pressure of the air.

amplitude

Different forms of the word

Noun: amplitude.

Adjective: amplitudinous.

Verb: amplify.

Adverb: amply.

Etymology

The word "amplitude" comes from the Latin word amplitudo, which means "largeness" or "breadth." The word amplitudo is made up of the prefix ampli, which means "large," and the noun tudo, which means "state of being.".

Question

Use the word amplitude in a sentence.

AQA Science Exam Question and Answer

Question:

Define the term "amplitude" as it relates to waves and vibrations. Explain its significance in understanding wave characteristics.

Answer:

  • Amplitude refers to the maximum displacement or distance that a particle in a wave moves from its equilibrium or rest position. It is a measure of the wave's intensity or energy. Understanding amplitude helps us determine the wave's strength or loudness in the case of sound waves, and its brightness in the case of light waves. In general, larger amplitudes correspond to more energetic waves.