harmonic motion

American  

noun

Physics.

1. periodic motion consisting of one or more vibratory motions that are symmetric about a region of equilibrium, as the motion of a vibrating string of a musical instrument.

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harmonic motion British  

noun

1. a periodic motion in which the displacement is symmetrical about a point or a periodic motion that is composed of such motions See also simple harmonic motion

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harmonic motion Scientific  

1. A periodic vibration, as of a violin string, in which the motions are symmetrical about a region of equilibrium. Such a vibration may have only one frequency and amplitude or may be a combination of two or more components called harmonics.

2. Also called periodic motion

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Etymology

Origin of harmonic motion

First recorded in 1865–70

Example Sentences

Examples of harmonic motion include springs, gravitational force, and magnetic force.

From Textbooks • Dec. 1, 2021

What is so significant about simple harmonic motion?

From Textbooks • Aug. 12, 2015

Suppose a diving board with no one on it bounces up and down in a simple harmonic motion with a frequency of 4.00 Hz.

From Textbooks • Aug. 12, 2015

A diver on a diving board is undergoing simple harmonic motion.

From Textbooks • Aug. 12, 2015

How can waves be discussed unless in terms of period, amplitude, frequency, and the like, that find definition in simple harmonic motion?

From College Teaching Studies in Methods of Teaching in the College by Klapper, Paul