amplitude Definition
- 1the maximum extent of a vibration or oscillation, measured from the position of equilibrium
- 2the magnitude of a quantity, especially force or electric current, as measured on a logarithmic scale
Using amplitude: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "amplitude" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The amplitude of the sound wave determines its volume.
Example
The amplitude of the earthquake was recorded at 7.2 on the Richter scale.
Example
The amplitude of the electric current is measured in amperes.
amplitude Synonyms and Antonyms
Phrases with amplitude
a method of transmitting signals by changing the amplitude of a carrier wave
Example
AM radio uses amplitude modulation to transmit audio signals.
Example
The amplitude spectrum of the sound wave showed a peak at 1000 Hz.
a digital modulation technique that varies the amplitude of a carrier wave to represent binary data
Example
ASK is a simple form of amplitude modulation used in digital communication systems.
Origins of amplitude
from Latin 'amplitudo', meaning 'breadth'
Summary: amplitude in Brief
In physics, 'amplitude' [ˈæmplɪtjuːd] refers to the maximum extent of a vibration or oscillation, or the magnitude of a quantity like force or electric current. It is often measured on a logarithmic scale and can be used to describe phenomena like sound waves or earthquakes. Phrases like 'amplitude modulation' and 'amplitude spectrum' refer to specific techniques for transmitting or analyzing signals. 'Amplitude' is a formal term that can be used interchangeably with 'magnitude' or 'extent.'