Periodic driving force

Definition

A periodic driving force is an external force applied to a system at regular time intervals, causing the system to oscillate with a frequency determined by the force. This can lead to resonance if the driving frequency matches the natural frequency of the system.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The amplitude of oscillation increases when the driving frequency approaches the system's natural frequency.
2. Resonance occurs when the driving frequency equals the natural frequency, leading to maximum energy transfer.
3. Damping can affect how a system responds to a periodic driving force by reducing its amplitude over time.
4. The phase difference between the driving force and the oscillator's response depends on both damping and the relationship between driving and natural frequencies.
5. Periodic driving forces are described mathematically using sinusoidal functions like sine or cosine.

Review Questions

• What happens to an oscillator's amplitude when the driving frequency matches its natural frequency?
• How does damping influence an oscillator subjected to a periodic driving force?
• What is the typical mathematical representation of a periodic driving force?

Related terms

Resonance: The condition in which an oscillator experiences maximum amplitude due to matching its natural frequency with an external periodic driving force.

Damping: A process that reduces the amplitude of oscillations in a system over time, usually due to friction or other resistive forces.

Natural Frequency: The specific frequency at which a system naturally oscillates when not subjected to any external forces.