Question

What is an oscillation in physics?

Answer 1

Oscillation

1. Oscillation is defined as the process of repeating variations of any quantity or measure about its equilibrium value in time.
2. Oscillation can also be defined as a periodic variation of a matter between two values or about its central value.
3. An object is swinging from side to side in a mechanical system this movement can be termed oscillation motion.
4. There are three types of oscillation:
   4.1 Free oscillation:
   4.2 Damped oscillation:
   4.3 Forced oscillation:

Free Oscillation:

1. The free oscillation possesses constant amplitude and period without any external force to set the oscillation. Ideally, free oscillation does not undergo damping. In such a system, the amplitude, frequency and energy all remain constant.

Damped oscillation:

1. The damping is the resistance offered to the oscillation. The oscillation that fades with time is called damped oscillation.
2. Due to damping, the amplitude of oscillation reduces with time.
3. Reduction in amplitude is the result of energy loss from the system in overcoming external forces like friction or air resistance and other resistive forces.
4. Thus, with the decrease in amplitude, the energy of the system also keeps decreasing.

Forced oscillation:

1. When a body oscillates by being influenced by an external periodic force, it is called forced oscillation. Here, the amplitude of oscillation, experiences damping but remains constant due to the external energy supplied to the system.
2. For example, when you push someone on a swing, you have to keep periodically pushing them so that the swing doesn’t reduce.