Simple Harmonic Motion
Reference from the original Physics I textbook.
- Simple Harmonic Motion
Simple harmonic motion occurs when acceleration is proportional to displacement from equilibrium and directed toward equilibrium: a = −ω²x. In the ideal undamped case the motion is sinusoidal.
- Related Glossary Terms
Dampened Harmonicsⓘ, Dampening Harmonics Equation, Period for Oddly Shaped Pendulums, Period for Simple Pendulums
- Index
Reviewed physics notes (1)
These corrections keep the original lesson’s purpose while fixing errors in the source edition.
- SHM requires a restoring force; it is not motion with no external forces. — Reference 1
Glossary and deeper reading · 2 refreshers
These editorial refreshers supplement the reading. Definitions and examples are added guidance; original source wording and recorded answers remain in their original context.
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Simple harmonic motion
Simple harmonic motion occurs when the net restoring force is proportional to displacement from equilibrium and points in the opposite direction. The resulting position varies sinusoidally with time in the ideal model. For example, a mass attached to an ideal spring can execute simple harmonic motion when damping is negligible.
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Damping
Damping is a process that transfers energy out of an oscillation and reduces its amplitude over time. The motion can remain oscillatory or approach equilibrium without oscillating, depending on the damping strength. For example, an oscillator moving through a viscous liquid loses mechanical energy to the liquid.