Amplitude is the maximum displacement of a wave from its rest position.
It shows how strong or intense a wave is.
What it means:-
In a transverse wave: it's the height of the crest (or depth of the trough) from the middle line.
In a longitudinal wave: it's how compressed or stretched the particles are.
Why it matters:
More amplitude = more energy
Sound wave? → Louder sound
Light wave? → Brighter light
Formula idea:
Energy ∝ (Amplitude)²So, doubling amplitude = 4× more energy
Units:
Amplitude is measured in meters (m) for mechanical waves, or in relevant intensity units for other wave types.
In Different Waves
Transverse wave → Height of crest or depth of trough
Longitudinal wave → How tight the compressions are
