What Is the Difference Between Amplitude and Magnitude in Quantum Mechanics?

In summary, Amplitude is the maximum displacement from equilibrium in a sinusoidal wave, while Magnitude is the absolute value of the displacement. In quantum mechanics, amplitude can be complex valued.
  • #1
jazzchan
27
0
Amplitude ?? Magnitude ??

Dear all,

would you tell me what is the difference of Amplitude and Magnitude ??

thanks
 
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  • #2
In what context?
 
  • #3
Amplitude is the maximum displacement from equilibrium in a sinusoidal wave.
Magnitude is just the value of something; typically referring to scalar quantities.

It's sort of hard to describe magnitude.
 
Last edited:
  • #4
Amplitude is also the maximum value of the magnitude. The magnitude is simply the absolute value of the displacement, and since the amplitude is the maximum value of the displacement, the amplitude will be the maximum of the magnitude.

If you took a tape measure and measured the distance between the equilibrium point and the current position for a given time for a wave, that's the magnitude.

If you took a tape measure and measured how far away the wave gets over all time, that's the amplitude.

cookiemonster
 
  • #5
In QM, amplitude can be complex valued.
 

1. What is the difference between amplitude and magnitude?

Amplitude and magnitude are both measurements used to describe the size or strength of a signal. However, amplitude specifically refers to the maximum value of the signal, while magnitude is a measure of the overall strength or energy of the signal.

2. How are amplitude and magnitude related?

Amplitude and magnitude are closely related, as they both describe the strength of a signal. The amplitude of a signal can be used to calculate the magnitude by squaring the amplitude and taking the square root of the result.

3. What units are used to measure amplitude and magnitude?

Amplitude is typically measured in units such as volts or decibels, while magnitude is measured in units such as watts or joules. The specific units used may vary depending on the type of signal being measured.

4. How does amplitude affect the quality of a signal?

The amplitude of a signal can affect its quality in various ways. For example, a higher amplitude signal may be easier to detect and less susceptible to noise, while a lower amplitude signal may be more difficult to detect and more prone to distortion.

5. Can amplitude and magnitude be negative?

Yes, both amplitude and magnitude can be negative. This is often seen in signals that have a negative polarity, such as AC electrical signals. In these cases, the negative amplitude or magnitude simply indicates a reversal in the direction of the signal.

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