What is the definition of amplitude in physics?

Amplitude in physics refers to the maximum displacement of an oscillating or wave-like phenomenon from its equilibrium position or rest position. This means that when an object moves away from its central or rest point, the amplitude measures how far it travels from that point to its farthest point during its motion. For example, in the context of a wave, amplitude would indicate the height of the wave crest or depth of the trough relative to the center line of the wave. Understanding amplitude is essential in fields such as acoustics, engineering, and any domain involving wave mechanics or periodic motion.

The other choices do not accurately represent the concept of amplitude. The maximum speed of an object pertains to its velocity, the total distance covered relates to displacement but does not reflect maximum movement from a rest position, and the average height of an object in motion does not define amplitude either, as it does not consider the extent of displacement from equilibrium.