Question

Define oscillatory motion.

Answer 1

1. The motion that repeats itself after fixed intervals of time is called periodic motion. We know that oscillatory motion is a type of periodic motion.
2. Oscillatory motion is defined as the to and fro motion of an object from its mean position.
3. The ideal condition is that the object can be in oscillatory motion forever in the absence of friction but in the real world, this is not possible and the object has to settle into equilibrium.
4. Following are the examples of oscillatory motion:
   1. Oscillation of simple pendulum
   2. Vibrating strings of musical instruments is a mechanical example of oscillatory motion
   3. Movement of spring
   4. Alternating current is an electrical example of oscillatory motion.