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 that are experiencing the wave motion exhibit larger displacements from their equilibrium positions. As the wave passes through a medium, the particles are pushed or pulled farther away from their resting positions, resulting in more pronounced oscillations. The particles move through a larger range, reaching greater maximum displacements.
Low Amplitude Wave: In contrast, a low amplitude wave causes particles to experience smaller displacements from their equilibrium positions. The oscillations of the particles are less pronounced, and the particles move through a smaller range, reaching lower maximum displacements. The amplitude of the wave determines the extent of the particle motion, and in a low amplitude wave, the particles do not move as far from their equilibrium positions as they do in a high amplitude wave.
It's important to note that the particle motion associated with a wave depends on the nature of the wave itself. For example, in a transverse wave, such as a wave on a string, particles oscillate perpendicular to the direction of wave propagation. In a longitudinal wave, like a sound wave, particles oscillate parallel to the direction of wave propagation, compressing and rarefying the medium.
Regardless of the type of wave, the amplitude directly influences the extent of particle displacement and the overall energy carried by the wave. A higher amplitude wave corresponds to more energetic particle motion, while a lower amplitude wave represents less energetic particle motion.