Here's how it works:

* High amplitude: A wave with a high amplitude has a large vertical distance between its crest (highest point) and its trough (lowest point). This means the wave has a greater intensity or strength.

* Low amplitude: A wave with a low amplitude has a small vertical distance between its crest and trough. This means the wave has less intensity or strength.

Think of it like this:

* Amplitude is like the volume of a sound. A loud sound has a high amplitude wave, while a soft sound has a low amplitude wave.

* Amplitude is also like the strength of a light wave. A bright light has a high amplitude wave, while a dim light has a low amplitude wave.

In summary, amplitude determines the height or intensity of a wave.