What Are the Everyday Examples of Simple Harmonic Motion?

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SUMMARY

Simple Harmonic Motion (SHM) is exemplified in everyday life through various mechanisms, including springs, pendulums, and musical instruments. The discussion highlights that musical instruments generate sound via vibrations that are fundamentally simple harmonic motions. Additionally, car shock absorbers utilize a combination of mass (m), spring (k), and damping (c/2m) to create damped harmonic motion, which is a practical application of SHM principles. The mathematical representations of these motions are crucial for understanding their dynamics.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics concepts, particularly oscillations
  • Familiarity with the equations of motion, specifically F=ma
  • Knowledge of mechanical systems, including springs and dampers
  • Basic grasp of differential equations related to harmonic motion
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the mathematical modeling of damped harmonic motion
  • Explore the role of SHM in the design of musical instruments
  • Study the physics of oscillations in mechanical systems, focusing on shock absorbers
  • Learn about the applications of SHM in engineering and technology
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Students of physics, mechanical engineers, and anyone interested in the practical applications of simple harmonic motion in everyday systems.

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SIMPLE HARMONIC MOTION--help needed

Hello ,

i m looking for examples for simple harmonic motion,.. how does this theory apply in daily life?

I had go through the net

, i find that the examples given are the simple motion of the spring and pendulum. Any other examples on this?

I would very appreciate on your reply as this will really help me in my understanding in oscilliations
 
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Many musical instruments produce their sounds by vibrations, which are combinations of simple harmonic motions.
 


What about the shock absorber of a car? You have a mass (m),spring (k) and damper(c/2m).

F=ma
Fs+Fd=my"

y"+(c/2m)y'+(k/m)y=0,<-this is damped HM

y"+(k/m)y=0<- this SHM the damper is not included

IC's: y(0)=K1 y'(0)=K2 <-these could be any values
 

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