What is the difference between SHM and HM ?

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Simple Harmonic Motion (SHM) refers specifically to motion that is purely sinusoidal, characterized by a restoring force proportional to displacement. In contrast, Harmonic Motion encompasses a broader category of periodic behaviors, which may include multiple frequencies and complex combinations of motions. While SHM is mathematically simple, represented by functions like x(t)=Acos(wt+φ), harmonic motion can involve more intricate patterns. The discussion highlights the importance of distinguishing between these terms, as they are often used interchangeably. Understanding these differences is crucial for accurately describing various physical systems.
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What is the difference between Simple Harmonic Motion and Harmonic Motion ?
and How do we define the motion of a system is SHM ?

Thank you !
 
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Sometimes they are used interchangably. SHM is usually taken to mean purely sinusoidal behavior. "harmonic motion" could simply mean regularly repeating behavior, but could consist of multiple frequencies (fundamental, overtones, undertones, additional fundamental excitations, etc)
 
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linuxpie said:
What is the difference between Simple Harmonic Motion and Harmonic Motion ?

Hi linuxpie ! Welcome to PF! :smile:

See http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Complex_harmonic_motion:
Complex harmonic motion occurs when a number of simple harmonic motions are combined.

Chords in music are an example of this phenomenon.
and How do we define the motion of a system is SHM ?

SHM is where the restoring force is proportional to the displacement (or look up wikipedia! :wink: ).
 
linuxpie said:
What is the difference between Simple Harmonic Motion and Harmonic Motion ?
and How do we define the motion of a system is SHM ?Thank you !
My understanding is that 'harmonic' is synonymous to periodic, and the 'simple' means that the displacement (from the origin) is a sinusodal function of time - i.e., a mathematically simple function. For example x(t)=Acos(wt+\phi), where A,w and \phi are constants. This is equivalent to the definition that tiny-tim gave above.
 
Thank you all !
 
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