Mechanical Resonance and Natural Frequency at the Atomic/Lattice Level

In summary, mechanical resonance frequencies of complex macroscopic objects, such as a bridge, are determined by the elastic properties of the materials it is made of. The "springlike interatomic forces" between molecules allow for elastic deformations, which contribute to the overall resonance of the system. This is explained in more detail in the provided resource from MIT.
  • #1
Alr
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How do we explain resonance of a complex system (say a bridge) at the atomic level? What's happening to its molecules when it's oscillating at resonance, and does that have anything to do with the frequency at which the molecules oscillate in the material?
 
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  • #2
Mechanical resonance frequencies of complex macroscopic objects depend on the elastic properties of the constituting materials. At the end, it’s the „springlike interatomic forces“ which allow macroscopic elastic deformations at all.
 
  • #3
Alr said:
How do we explain resonance of a complex system (say a bridge) at the atomic level? What's happening to its molecules when it's oscillating at resonance, and does that have anything to do with the frequency at which the molecules oscillate in the material?
http://web.mit.edu/course/3/3.11/www/modules/elas_2.pdf

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  • #4
Thank you both. That's exactly what I'm looking for.
 
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1. What is mechanical resonance at the atomic/lattice level?

Mechanical resonance at the atomic/lattice level refers to the phenomenon where a system of atoms or molecules vibrates at its natural frequency when exposed to an external force or energy. This results in a large amplitude of vibration and can lead to structural damage or failure if the frequency of the external force matches the natural frequency of the system.

2. How is natural frequency determined at the atomic/lattice level?

Natural frequency at the atomic/lattice level is determined by the stiffness and mass of the atoms or molecules in the system. The stiffer the atoms or molecules, the higher the natural frequency will be. The mass of the atoms or molecules also plays a role in determining the natural frequency, with heavier atoms or molecules having a lower natural frequency.

3. What factors can affect mechanical resonance at the atomic/lattice level?

There are several factors that can affect mechanical resonance at the atomic/lattice level. These include the stiffness and mass of the atoms or molecules, the strength of the external force or energy, and the damping or friction within the system. Changes in any of these factors can alter the natural frequency and potentially lead to resonance.

4. How does mechanical resonance at the atomic/lattice level impact materials?

Mechanical resonance at the atomic/lattice level can have significant impacts on materials. When a material is exposed to an external force or energy that matches its natural frequency, the large amplitude of vibration can cause the material to weaken or fail. This is a common cause of structural damage in buildings, bridges, and other structures.

5. Can mechanical resonance at the atomic/lattice level be controlled?

Yes, mechanical resonance at the atomic/lattice level can be controlled through various methods. These include changing the stiffness or mass of the system, altering the external force or energy, and implementing damping techniques to reduce the amplitude of vibration. Understanding the natural frequency of a system and taking steps to avoid resonance can help prevent structural damage and failure.

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