Simple Harmonic Oscillator

Definition

A simple harmonic oscillator refers to any system that exhibits periodic motion back and forth around an equilibrium position under the influence of a restoring force proportional to its displacement.

Related terms

Amplitude:

The maximum displacement from equilibrium in an oscillating system.

Periodic Motion: Any motion that repeats itself in a regular interval of time.

Restoring Force:

A force that acts to bring an object back to its equilibrium position when it is displaced.