IB Physics C.4 Standing Waves and Resonance Key Definitions

Amplitude is the maximum displacement of an oscillating object from its equilibrium position.

Antinodes are points on a standing wave where the displacement reaches its maximum value.

Critical damping occurs when a system returns to its equilibrium position in the shortest possible time without oscillating.

Damping is the gradual reduction in the amplitude of an oscillating system due to resistive forces, such as friction or air resistance, that dissipate energy from the system over time.

The fundamental frequency is the lowest frequency at which a system can sustain a standing wave, corresponding to the first harmonic. All higher harmonics are integer multiples of this frequency.

A harmonic is a standing wave pattern that fits the boundary conditions of a system. The first harmonic (fundamental) is the lowest frequency; higher harmonics have frequencies that are integer multiples of it.

Heavy damping is defined as a type of damping where the body attains its equilibrium gradually without any oscillation.

Light damping is when the amplitude of each oscillation is fractionally less than the previous one

A natural frequency is a frequency at which the system naturally oscillates when not disturbed by external forces.

Nodes are points on a standing wave where the displacement is always zero.

The large increase in amplitude that occurs when a system is driven by a periodic external force at a frequency equal to its natural frequency, so energy is transferred into the system most efficiently.

Standing wave is a combination of two waves moving in opposite directions, each having the same amplitude and frequency.