Chapter 17- Oscillations Flashcards
Simple harmonic motion
Oscillating motion given by: a = -w(squared)x
Displacement x
The distance from the equilibrium position.
Amplitude A
The maximum displacement from the equilibrium position.
Period T
The time taken to complete one full oscillation.
Frequency f
The number of complete oscillations per unit time.
Phase difference (for oscillating motion)
The difference in displacement between two oscillating objects or the displacement of an oscillating objects at different times.
What is an isochronous oscillator?
Oscillator for which period T is independent of amplitude A.
Determining f and T of objects moving with SHM
Measure time taken for several oscillations using a stopwatch, repeat and then calculate T.
Fiducial marker placed at the equilibrium position provides a clear point to start/stop timer.
Damping
When an external force acts on an oscillator and this reduces the amplitude of the oscillations.
Free oscillation
Motion of a mechanical system displaced from its equilibrium position and allowed to oscillate without any external forces.
Forced oscillation
When a periodic driving force is applied to an oscillator. Object will vibrate at the driving frequency.
Resonance
Increase in amplitude of a forced oscillation when the driving f = natural f of the system.
