Chapter 11 Vibrations and Waves When a vibration or oscillation repeats itself back and forth over the same path, the motion is periodic. When an object oscillates, the point where no net force is applied on the object is called the point of equilibrium. See spring diagram p 310. The distance, x, which is the distance from the equilibrium point is called the displacement. When x is at a maximum, this is amplitude. One cycle, is the time to oscillate through one complete movement and return to the original point.

A period is the time to complete one cycle. Frequency is how often cycles occur per unit of time. Frequency is inversely related to period. Any vibrating system for which the restoring force is directly proportional to the negative of the displacement is said to be simple harmonic motion. (SHM ) (F=-kx)

Homework Page 342 pr#1-8