Simple Harmonic Motion and Oscillations

Flashcards covering key concepts in Simple Harmonic Motion and Oscillations based on lecture notes.

Hooke’s Law

States that the force exerted by a spring is proportional to the displacement from equilibrium, expressed as F = -kx.

Spring Constant (k)

A constant of proportionality in Hooke's Law that describes the stiffness of a spring, measured in Newtons per meter (N/m).

Frequency (f)

The number of cycles or oscillations per second, measured in Hertz (Hz).

Period (T)

The time it takes for one complete cycle of motion, measured in seconds (s).

Simple Harmonic Motion (SHM)

Oscillatory motion of a system where the net force is a linear restoring force.

Amplitude (A)

The maximum displacement from the equilibrium position, measured in meters.

Damping

The effect of friction or other resistance that reduces the amplitude of oscillations over time.

Equilibrium Position

The position where the net force acting on the system is zero, and the system remains at rest if undisturbed.

Crest

The highest point of a wave above the equilibrium position.

Trough

The lowest point of a wave below the equilibrium position.