Mass-Spring Oscillator

Definition

A mass-spring oscillator is a system consisting of a mass attached to a spring. It undergoes harmonic motion back and forth due to the elastic restoring force exerted by the spring.

Related terms

Amplitude:

The maximum displacement from equilibrium during one complete cycle of oscillation.

Frequency:

The number of complete cycles or oscillations per unit time (usually measured in hertz).

Damping: The gradual decrease in amplitude over time due to energy loss through friction or other resistive forces.