Introduction to Oscillations
In our daily lives, we experience various types of motion, each defined by its distinct characteristics. As we have learned, rectilinear motion and projectile motion do not repeat, categorizing them as non-repetitive motions. In contrast, motion can be classified as periodic when it repeats after regular intervals—like the uniform circular motion of planets. Oscillatory motion, a specific type of periodic motion, involves movements back and forth about an equilibrium or mean position. Common examples of oscillatory motion include a swinging pendulum, rocking in a cradle, a boat bobbing in waves, or the pistons in a steam engine. Understanding oscillatory motion is fundamental in physics, as it underpins a wide range of phenomena such as sound production in musical instruments and the energy dynamics in systems like AC power supply. In this chapter, we will explore the fundamental concepts of oscillatory motion, including terms like period, frequency, amplitude, and phase.