Simple harmonic motion

Oscillations A regular movement like bouncing a ball or a mass spring system are called oscillations. Types of oscillations: a) Mechanical oscillations b) Electrical oscillations Mechanical oscillation is known as repeating movement and the latter is the repeated change in voltage and current. The bodies that oscillate move to and fro from either side of the equilibrium position. The equilibrium position is that in which the displacement is zero. Amplitude - The maximum displacement of the object or particle from the displacement position is called the amplitude. This can be either positive or negative Period (T) - The time period of the oscillation is the time taken for the object or particle to complete 1 oscillation or one cycle. T = 1 / (f) or f = 1 / T (f = Frequency) When oscillating objects reach maximum displacement, they are not moving, so at that time, af is at maximum displacement and the velocity is zero. It then speeds up in the opposite direction and travels through the equilibrium position before slowing down again. Its maximum velocity is when it passes through the equilibrium position. Therefore when velocity is maximum, the displacement is zero, and vice versa. (Insert diagram in the space alloted below)

Simple harmonic motion (SHM) An oscillation in which the acceleration of an object is directly proportional to its displacement from the midpoint but in the opposite direction and directed towards the midpoint is a SHM. Examples of SHM 1. Vibrating strings of a musical instrument 2. Vibration of electrons in a wire when AC current is applied 3. The atoms that make up a molecule Requirements of SHM 1. A mass that oscillates 2. A position where the mass is in equilibrium 3. A restoring force that acts to return the particle to its equilibrium position The restoring force is directly proportional to the displacement (x) of the mass from its equilibrium point and is directed to that point.