Definition:Oscillation (Physics)

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This page is about oscillation in the context of physics. For other uses, see oscillation.

Definition

Oscillation is a regular fluctuation in the magnitude of the displacement of a body about a particular position, value or state.

This usually occurs in the context of mechanical or electronic systems.


Thus, in the context of mechanics, an oscillation is an example of a periodic motion.


Period of Oscillation

Let $B$ be a body undergoing oscillation.

The period of oscillation of $B$ is the time taken for $B$ to make one complete journey from one end of its path to the other and back again.


Examples

Pendulum

The swinging of a pendulum is an example of oscillation.


Tuning Fork

The motion of the tines of a tuning fork is an example of oscillation.


Also known as

Oscillation is also known as vibration.

This term is usually restricted to the context of mechanics.


Also see

  • Results about oscillation in the context of physics can be found here.


Sources