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Magnitude

Definition

Magnitude refers to the size or extent of something. In mathematics, magnitude often refers to the absolute value or length of a vector or complex number.

Analogy

Think of magnitude as measuring how loud music is. Just like the volume of music can be measured on a scale, magnitude measures the "loudness" or size of mathematical quantities.

Related terms

Vector: A quantity that has both magnitude and direction.

Complex number: A number that consists of a real part and an imaginary part, often represented as a + bi, where a and b are real numbers.

Absolute value: The distance between a number and zero on the number line, always resulting in a non-negative value.



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© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.

AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.