Amplitude Calculator - Wave Oscillation

This physics calculator helps you calculate amplitude of waves and oscillations using various parameters. Amplitude is the maximum displacement from equilibrium position.

Amplitude Definition

• Amplitude: Maximum displacement from equilibrium
• Formula from Range: A = (max - min)/2
• Formula from Peak-to-Peak: A = peak-to-peak/2
• Formula from RMS: A = RMS × √2

Amplitude Relationships

• Peak-to-Peak: P-P = 2A (twice amplitude)
• RMS Value: RMS = A/√2 (root mean square)
• Peak Value: Peak = A (maximum value)
• Average: Avg = (max + min)/2 (mean value)

Applications

• Wave Physics: Sound, light, and water waves
• Electronics: AC voltage and current signals
• Mechanics: Oscillating systems and vibrations
• Acoustics: Sound intensity and loudness
• Optics: Light wave properties
• Engineering: Signal processing and analysis

Important Notes

• Amplitude is always positive
• Amplitude is independent of frequency
• Amplitude affects energy and intensity
• Amplitude can be measured in various units
• Amplitude determines wave strength

Amplitude Types

• Displacement Amplitude: Maximum distance from equilibrium
• Velocity Amplitude: Maximum speed of oscillation
• Acceleration Amplitude: Maximum acceleration
• Pressure Amplitude: Maximum pressure variation
• Electric Field Amplitude: Maximum electric field strength

Amplitude Examples

• Sound Wave: 1 μm to 1 mm (human hearing)
• Ocean Wave: 0.1 m to 30 m (typical to extreme)
• Light Wave: 400-700 nm (visible spectrum)
• Pendulum: 1 cm to 1 m (depending on length)
• AC Voltage: 170 V (120 V RMS)

Amplitude in Different Contexts

• Mechanical Waves: Displacement of particles
• Electromagnetic Waves: Electric/magnetic field strength
• Sound Waves: Air pressure variation
• Water Waves: Water surface height
• Electrical Signals: Voltage or current variation

Amplitude Measurement

• Oscilloscope: Electronic measurement of signals
• Ruler: Direct measurement of displacement
• Microphone: Sound pressure measurement
• Photodetector: Light intensity measurement
• Accelerometer: Vibration amplitude

Amplitude Effects

• Energy: Energy ∝ amplitude²
• Intensity: Intensity ∝ amplitude²
• Loudness: Sound amplitude affects volume
• Brightness: Light amplitude affects intensity
• Power: Electrical amplitude affects power