In terms of particle motion, the difference between a high amplitude wave and a low amplitude wave can be described as follows:
High Amplitude Wave: In a high amplitude wave, the particles within the medium experience larger displacements from their equilibrium positions. When the wave passes through the medium, the particles are pushed or pulled to greater distances from their rest positions. As a result, the motion of the particles becomes more pronounced. For example, in a transverse wave like a water wave, the peaks and troughs are more pronounced, and the water particles move up and down over larger distances.
Low Amplitude Wave: In contrast, a low amplitude wave has smaller displacements of particles from their equilibrium positions. The wave passes through the medium with smaller magnitudes of displacement, causing the particles to move to lesser distances from their rest positions. In a transverse wave, the peaks and troughs are less pronounced, and the motion of the particles is more confined. The overall effect is that the wave appears smaller and less intense compared to a high amplitude wave.
In both cases, it's important to note that the wave still carries energy and propagates through the medium, but the extent of particle displacement is what distinguishes the high and low amplitude waves.