What is the peak-to-peak value?

• A. Peak value
• B. Peak-to-peak value
• C. Average value
• D. RMS value

Answer: (B)

The peak-to-peak value is the total vertical span of a waveform, measured from its highest point to its lowest point. It’s found by subtracting the minimum value from the maximum value, telling you how far the signal swings between its extreme positive and negative excursions. For a sine wave centered at zero, peak-to-peak equals twice the amplitude. This differs from the peak value, which is just the maximum positive value; average value and RMS value describe other aspects of the waveform, such as its average level over time and its effective heating value.