Simple harmonic motion
Simple harmonic motion is a type of periodic motion in which an object undergoes oscillatory motion. The restoring force exerted by the object exhibiting SHM is proportional to the displacement from the equilibrium position. The force is directed towards the mean position. We see many examples of SHM around us, common ones are the motion of a pendulum, spring and vibration of strings in musical instruments, and so on.
Simple Pendulum
A simple pendulum comprises a heavy mass (called bob) attached to one end of the weightless and flexible string.
Oscillation
In Physics, oscillation means a repetitive motion that happens in a variation with respect to time. There is usually a central value, where the object would be at rest. Additionally, there are two or more positions between which the repetitive motion takes place. In mathematics, oscillations can also be described as vibrations. The most common examples of oscillation that is seen in daily lives include the alternating current (AC) or the motion of a moving pendulum.
![**Bartons Pendula: What will happen?**
**Image Description:**
The image features a setup with three pendula labeled A, B, and C. A pendulum is a weight suspended from a pivot so that it can swing freely back and forth. The pendula in the image are composed of spheres attached to strings, and they are aligned next to each other.
**Text on Image:**
- "Swing this one, what happens next?" — There is an arrow pointing to the far left pendulum (A).
- "A" — Labeled below the first pendulum on the left.
- "B" — Labeled below the middle pendulum.
- "C" — Labeled below the far right pendulum.
- Multiple choice options below the image:
- "D. More than one will oscillate"
- "E. Not enough information"
**Concept:**
This image presents a classic physics problem exploring resonance and oscillation. The initial question asks what will occur when pendulum A is swung, implicating an investigation into the behavior of connected pendula and their potential for synchronous motion due to resonant frequencies, energy transfer, or conservation of momentum.](/v2/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fcontent.bartleby.com%2Fqna-images%2Fquestion%2F8b5d3f26-cda5-43e5-8223-bfa02258241c%2F8673e3c3-b26d-4dfc-a9de-2a9164a48eef%2F4b3vztf_processed.png&w=3840&q=75)
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