Saturday 1 November 2014

Oscillations

 An oscillating object moves repeatedly one way then in the opposite direction through its equilibrium position. The displacement of the object from equilibrium continually changes during the motion. In one full cycle after being released from a non-equilibrium position, the displacement of the object:
  • Decreases as it returns to equilibrium, then
  • Reverse and increases as it moves away from equilibrium in the opposite direction, then
  • Decreases as it returns to equilibrium
  • Increases as it moves away from equilibrium towards its starting position


Examples of oscillating motion:
  1. A pendulum moving to and fro repeatedly
  2. A ball bearing rolling from side to side
  3. A small boat rocking from side to side