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.

---

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

---

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

---

Etymology

Origin of harmonic motion

First recorded in 1865–70

Example Sentences

A particle of mass 100 g undergoes a simple harmonic motion.

From Textbooks • Aug. 12, 2015

What is so significant about simple harmonic motion?

From Textbooks • Aug. 12, 2015

When a linear restoring force is exerted on an object displaced from an equilibrium position, the object will undergo a special type of motion called simple harmonic motion.

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