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

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SUMMARY

The discussion clarifies the distinction between amplitude and magnitude in the context of quantum mechanics and wave physics. Amplitude refers to the maximum displacement from equilibrium in a sinusoidal wave, while magnitude represents the absolute value of that displacement. Specifically, amplitude is the peak value of the magnitude, which is a scalar quantity. In quantum mechanics, amplitude can also be complex-valued, adding another layer to its definition.

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  • Basic grasp of complex numbers
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jazzchan
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Amplitude ?? Magnitude ??

Dear all,

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

thanks
 
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In what context?
 
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:
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
 
In QM, amplitude can be complex valued.
 

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