Amplitude is a term that is used in various fields, such as physics, mathematics, and music. It is a fundamental concept that describes the magnitude or strength of a wave or vibration. This article aims to provide a comprehensive definition and meaning of amplitude, as well as its origin, associations, synonyms, antonyms, and example sentences.
Definitions
Amplitude is defined as the maximum displacement or distance moved by a wave from its equilibrium position. It is also the measure of the strength or intensity of a wave, which can be expressed in terms of its height, depth, or width. In mathematics, amplitude refers to the absolute value of the maximum deviation of a function from its average value.
Origin
The word amplitude is derived from the Latin word “amplitudo,” which means “breadth” or “width.” It was first used in the 17th century by scientists and mathematicians to describe the size or extent of a wave or oscillation.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, amplitude is “the extent or range of a quality, property, process, or phenomenon.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “the maximum extent of a vibration or oscillation, measured from the position of equilibrium.” The Cambridge Dictionary describes amplitude as “the maximum height or strength of a wave or vibration.”
Associations
Amplitude is closely associated with frequency, wavelength, and period. Frequency refers to the number of cycles or oscillations per second, while wavelength is the distance between two consecutive peaks or troughs of a wave. Period is the time taken for one complete cycle or oscillation.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of amplitude include magnitude, strength, intensity, size, breadth, width, range, extent, and amplitude modulation.
Antonyms
Antonyms of amplitude include insignificance, weakness, smallness, narrowness, and amplitude demodulation.
The same root words
Some words that share the same root as amplitude include amplify, amplification, and amplifier. These words are related to the concept of increasing or enhancing the strength or intensity of something.
Example Sentences
- The amplitude of the earthquake was measured at 7.5 on the Richter scale.
- The amplitude of the sound wave determines its loudness.
- The amplitude of the ocean waves was impressive to watch.
- The amplitude of the signal was too low to be detected by the receiver.
- The amplitude of the light wave determines its brightness.
In conclusion, amplitude is a fundamental concept that is used to describe the magnitude or strength of a wave or vibration. It has various applications in physics, mathematics, and music, and is closely related to frequency, wavelength, and period. Understanding the meaning and definition of amplitude is essential for anyone studying or working in these fields.