Damped harmonic motion

Definition

Damped harmonic motion describes an oscillatory motion where the amplitude of the oscillations decreases over time due to an external force like friction or resistance. It is a type of motion observed in many physical systems that lose energy over time.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The damping force is usually proportional to the velocity of the object and acts in the opposite direction.
2. There are three types of damping: underdamping, critical damping, and overdamping, each with distinct characteristics.
3. The equation of motion for a damped harmonic oscillator includes a term that accounts for the damping force.
4. In underdamped motion, the system oscillates with gradually decreasing amplitude.
5. Critical damping occurs when the system returns to equilibrium as quickly as possible without oscillating.

Review Questions

• What is the primary difference between undamped and damped harmonic motion?
• Describe what happens in a critically damped system.
• How does overdamping affect the return to equilibrium compared to underdamping?

Related terms

Underdamped:

A type of damping where the system oscillates with decreasing amplitude over time.

Critically Damped:

A type of damping where the system returns to its equilibrium position without oscillating and as quickly as possible.

Overdamped:

A type of damping where the system returns to equilibrium without oscillating but slower than in critical damping.