Quality Factor (Q)

The Quality Factor (Q) measures how well a system or device stores energy relative to energy lost per cycle. A high Q indicates the system maintains vibrations or oscillations for a longer time before damping out, meaning it’s very efficient at resonating at a specific frequency. Conversely, a low Q suggests rapid energy loss and a broader, less selective response. Q is crucial in applications like tuning circuits and musical instruments, where precise control of resonance and energy retention is essential for optimal performance.