Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Damping refers to the process of reducing or dissipating the energy of oscillations or vibrations in a system, typically through the use of friction or resistance.
Related terms
Oscillation: The repetitive back-and-forth motion of an object around its equilibrium position.
Frictional Damping: A type of damping that occurs when two surfaces rub against each other and convert mechanical energy into thermal energy.
A type of damping that occurs when an object moves through air and experiences resistance due to the collision between air molecules and the object's surface.