Oscillation

Definition

Oscillation refers to repetitive back-and-forth motion or fluctuation around a central point or equilibrium position. In mathematics, it often describes periodic behavior exhibited by functions or sequences.

Related terms

Amplitude: Amplitude measures the maximum displacement from equilibrium in an oscillating system. For example, in trigonometric functions like sine and cosine, amplitude determines how high or low they reach.

Frequency: Frequency represents how frequently an oscillating system completes one full cycle per unit time. It measures how fast something oscillates back and forth.

Periodic Function: A periodic function repeats its values over regular intervals as it goes through one complete cycle of oscillation. It exhibits a predictable pattern that repeats indefinitely.