Harmonic Oscillator
Definition
A harmonic oscillator refers to any system where a restoring force acts on an object, causing it to oscillate back and forth around a stable equilibrium position.
Analogy
Think of a swing set. When you push someone on a swing, they oscillate back and forth due to gravity pulling them down and tension in the chains pulling them back up towards equilibrium.
Related terms
Amplitude: The maximum displacement from equilibrium during one complete cycle of motion in a harmonic oscillator.
Frequency: The number of complete cycles or oscillations per unit time in a harmonic oscillator.
Period: The time taken for one complete cycle or oscillation in a harmonic oscillator.
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