Peak-to-peak computation: If the peak of a sine wave is 13 V, what is the peak-to-peak voltage (Vpp)?

Introduction / Context:Engineers often switch between peak (Vp), peak-to-peak (Vpp), and RMS values. Peak-to-peak measures the total excursion from the most negative to the most positive instant of a sinusoid. This item checks quick conversion from Vp to Vpp.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Peak voltage Vp = 13 V.
• Ideal sinusoid centered at 0 V (no DC offset).

Concept / Approach:

For a symmetric sine wave centered at zero, negative peak is −Vp and positive peak is +Vp. Therefore, Vpp = (+Vp) − (−Vp) = 2 * Vp.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:

If RMS were needed, Vrms = Vp/√2 ≈ 9.19 V, and Vpp would still be 2 * 13 V = 26 V. Different amplitude measures serve different purposes, but Vpp depends only on Vp for a centered sine.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

13 V is the peak, not peak-to-peak. 6.5 V would be Vp/2. ‘‘none of the above’’ is incorrect because 26 V is valid.

Common Pitfalls:

Confusing RMS or average with peak-to-peak; forgetting the factor of 2 when converting.

Final Answer:

26 V