Harmonic motion
Definition
Harmonic motion refers to repetitive back-and-forth motion around an equilibrium position where acceleration is proportional to displacement and directed towards it.
Analogy
Imagine swinging on a playground swing. As you swing back and forth, there's always one point where you feel the most comfortable, neither moving forward nor backward. This point is like the equilibrium position in harmonic motion, and as you swing away from it, you experience acceleration that brings you back towards it.
Related terms
Period: The period of harmonic motion is the time it takes for one complete cycle or oscillation.
Amplitude: The amplitude of harmonic motion is the maximum displacement from the equilibrium position.
Frequency: The frequency of harmonic motion is the number of complete cycles or oscillations per unit of time.
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