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

See Examples For:

harmonic motion

The simplest waves repeat themselves for several cycles and are associated with simple harmonic motion.

From Textbooks ● Aug. 12, 2015

In fact, the mass m and the force constant k are the only factors that affect the period and frequency of simple harmonic motion.

From Textbooks ● Aug. 12, 2015

What is so significant about simple harmonic motion?

From Textbooks ● Aug. 12, 2015

This observation is analogous to the fact that the frequency of a simple harmonic motion is inversely proportional to the mass of the oscillating object.

From Textbooks ● Aug. 12, 2015

It is this length of pendulum together with its almost harmonic motion which results in the excellent time-keeping done by clocks of the "grandfather" class.

From Christopher and the Clockmakers by Stecher, William F. (William Frederick)