key term - Simple Harmonic Motion (SHM)

Definition

Simple Harmonic Motion refers to the repetitive back-and-forth motion exhibited by certain systems when they are displaced from their equilibrium position and experience a restoring force proportional to their displacement. Examples include a mass-spring system or a pendulum swinging back and forth.

Related terms

Period:

The period of an oscillating system is the time taken for one complete cycle of motion. It is usually denoted by "T" and is measured in seconds.

Amplitude:

The amplitude represents the maximum displacement from equilibrium that an object experiences during its oscillation.

Frequency:

The frequency of an oscillating system refers to the number of complete cycles or vibrations it undergoes per unit time. It is usually denoted by "f" and is measured in hertz (Hz).