Oscillation

Oscillation is the repeated variation of a physical quantity around an equilibrium value. It may be periodic or irregular, and may arise from restoring forces, feedback, or external driving.

Simple harmonic motion: Periodic motion in which acceleration is proportional to displacement from equilibrium and directed toward it. It is the ideal pattern produced by a linear restoring force.
Equilibrium position: A state or position where the net force or net change on a system is zero. Oscillation is defined by repeated departures from and returns toward equilibrium.
Pendulum: A body suspended from a pivot that swings under gravity or another restoring influence. A pendulum provides a familiar mechanical example of oscillation.
Rotation: Motion of a body around an axis or center. Rotation can repeat, but describes angular motion rather than variation around equilibrium.
Damping: The gradual reduction of an oscillation's amplitude through energy loss. It explains why real oscillations often die away over time.
Amplitude: The maximum magnitude of a varying quantity's displacement from its central value. Amplitude measures how far an oscillation reaches from equilibrium.
Mass-spring system: A mass attached to a spring that moves under the spring's restoring force. Its motion models mechanical oscillation with a clear equilibrium point.
Uniform motion: Motion at constant velocity, with unchanged speed and direction. It lacks the recurring reversals characteristic of an oscillation.
Resonance: A large response that occurs when a system is driven near one of its natural frequencies. Driving near a natural frequency can amplify an oscillation dramatically.
Period (physics): The time required for one complete cycle of a repeating process. It measures the duration of one full oscillation.

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