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Physics vocabulary · Waves, Oscillations and Sound

Simple harmonic motion

Meaning in physics, with examples

nounCommon term

In physics, simple harmonic motion means: A repeating back-and-forth motion in which the acceleration is proportional to the displacement from the centre and always points back towards it. A mass on a spring moves this way.

In Turkish: basit harmonik hareket

How it is used

Abbreviated SHM. Its defining equation is a = −ω²x, and its displacement-time graph is a sine or cosine curve. The period of SHM does not depend on the amplitude, which is why a pendulum swinging through small angles keeps good time.

Example sentences

  1. A mass bouncing on a spring is a good example of simple harmonic motion.

  2. Show that the pendulum performs simple harmonic motion for small angles.

Common collocations

  • undergo simple harmonic motion
  • SHM
  • harmonic oscillator
  • angular frequency
  • periodThe time taken for one complete oscillation, or for one full wave to pass a point. It is measured in seconds and is the inverse of frequency (T = 1/f).
  • amplitudeThe maximum distance that a point on a wave or an oscillating object moves away from its rest position. A larger amplitude means the wave carries more energy.
  • frequencyThe number of complete waves or oscillations that pass a point, or happen, each second. It is measured in hertz (Hz), where 1 Hz means one cycle per second.
  • resonanceThe large increase in amplitude that happens when a system is pushed at a frequency equal to its own natural frequency. Energy is then transferred to the system very efficiently.
  • equilibriumA state in which all the forces and turning effects on an object balance, so its motion does not change. An object in equilibrium is at rest or moving at a constant velocity.

More terms: Waves, Oscillations and Sound

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