4. Damped Oscillations

What are Damped Oscillations?

Oscillations where amplitude and total energy of the system decrease with time due to dissipative forces (friction, viscous forces) removing energy.

How does resistive force affect amplitude in damped S.H.M.?

If resistive force is proportional to speed, amplitude decreases exponentially.

How does damping affect the frequency of oscillation?

Frequency of oscillations of damped S.H.M is lower than its natural frequency.

What is Natural Frequency?

The frequency of oscillation of free oscillations (without damping).

What is Damping?

The process whereby energy is removed from an oscillating system.

What determines the motion of an oscillating system? (Degrees of Damping)

The degree of damping, which depends on the magnitude of the resistive force.

What is Light Damping?

Occurs when resistive force is small; amplitude decays exponentially. Frequency is slightly lower than natural frequency (often assumed equal for light damping).

What is Critical Damping?

Occurs when resistive force is strong enough to prevent oscillation. System returns to equilibrium position in the shortest time without oscillating.

What is Heavy Damping?

Occurs when resistive force is even stronger than critical damping. System returns to equilibrium position, but takes a longer time than critical damping.

What is a good car suspension system? (Application of Critical Damping)

Damping should be critical or slightly under-critical for comfortable ride and quick response to bumps.

How does a shock absorber work? (Car Suspension)

Contains viscous fluid that absorbs energy from vertically accelerated wheels.