Simple Harmonic Oscillator
Definition
A simple harmonic oscillator refers to any system that exhibits periodic motion back and forth around an equilibrium position under the influence of a restoring force proportional to its displacement.
Analogy
Picture a swing set in a playground. As you push someone on the swing, they oscillate back and forth around their resting position due to gravity acting as a restoring force.
Related terms
Amplitude: The maximum displacement from equilibrium in an oscillating system.
Periodic Motion: Any motion that repeats itself in a regular interval of time.
Restoring Force: A force that acts to bring an object back to its equilibrium position when it is displaced.
"Simple Harmonic Oscillator" appears in:
Study guides (1)
Practice Questions (2)
- If the amplitude of a simple harmonic oscillator is quadrupled, its total mechanical energy will
- If the amplitude of a simple harmonic oscillator is quadrupled, its total mechanical energy will _____
Resources
© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.
AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.