Two Questions on Oscillation: Normal Modes and Natural Frequencies

[CalculusIsBette]

I have been pondering these two questions for a while:

How many normal modes of oscillation or natural frquencies does each of the following have:

1. A simple pendulum

2. a mass oscillating on a spring



Thanks!


CIB

 

[Claude Bile]

Just one each.

Claude.

 

[KingNothing]

Yes, what claude said. They each have one, in other words, simple harmonic motion. Think of it like a person on a swing: we all know there is that one rate of swinging that is just right. If you tried to swing any faster or slower, you just wouldn't get that much amplitude.

Some things with many normal-mode frequencies: musical strings, any wind instruments...