quantum amplitude
nounUK /ˈkwɒntəm ˈæmplɪtjuːd/
US /ˈkwɑːntəm ˈæmplɪtuːd/
A number that tells how likely a tiny particle is to be in a certain place or state.
Physicists calculate the quantum amplitude to predict where the electron will probably appear.
OTHER MEANINGS
2. A complex number whose squared magnitude gives the probability of a quantum outcome.
The quantum amplitude for the decay was small, so the event was rare.
3. The coefficient multiplying a basis state in a quantum superposition.
Each basis state in the superposition has its own quantum amplitude.
4. A mathematical quantity used to compute interference between alternative paths.
The two paths' quantum amplitudes added together to create a bright fringe.