Wavefunction

A mathematical function that gives the amplitude of a wave as a function of position and sometimes, as a function of time and/or electron spin. Wavefunctions are used in chemistry to represent the behaviour of electrons bound in atoms or molecules.

It is analogous to the amplitude of electromagnetic radiation which is a measurement of the disturbance caused by the ray's propagation through an electromagnetic field. The wave function squared defines the probability that the particle is located in that specific region of the de Broglie wave.

See also: de Broglie Wavelength.