What is the differences between vibration and oscillation

In summary, vibration is any type of motion around an equilibrium position, oscillation is when an object describes a periodic motion around an equilibrium position due to the presence of forces, simple harmonic motion is one example of periodic motion, and oscillation is when an object describes a periodic motion around an equilibrium position due to the presence of forces.
  • #1
abi.ayan
37
0
what is the difference between vibration, oscillation,simple harmonic motion and periodic motion?Is there any similarities between these terms? can anyone explain clearly pls.
 
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  • #2
Periodic motion is any motion that repeats itself.
Simple harmonic motion is one example of periodic motion where the movement is described by a sine function.
Oscillation is when an object describes a periodic motion around an equilibrium position due to the presence of forces.
Vibration is when different parts of an object oscillate in tandem forming waves that propagate through the body.
 
  • #3
dauto said:
Vibration is when different parts of an object oscillate in tandem forming waves that propagate through the body.

If that is the definition from some reference source, fine (but it would be nice to know the source).

But I would define vibration in a more general way, as any type of motion of an object around some equilibrium position. Not necessarily periodic, and not necessarily forming anything that looks like "waves". For example "random vibration" is certainly used in engineering to describe motion that can only be described and analyzed statistically.
 
  • #4
AlephZero said:
If that is the definition from some reference source, fine (but it would be nice to know the source).

But I would define vibration in a more general way, as any type of motion of an object around some equilibrium position. Not necessarily periodic, and not necessarily forming anything that looks like "waves". For example "random vibration" is certainly used in engineering to describe motion that can only be described and analyzed statistically.

Point taken. I was thinking of normal modes of vibration, but of course it's possible to have more complex vibration patterns.
 
  • #5
abi.ayan said:
what is the difference between vibration, oscillation,simple harmonic motion and periodic motion?Is there any similarities between these terms? can anyone explain clearly pls.

Have you looked up those terms in Wikipedia? I did, and it seems to provide ample explanations.
 

FAQ: What is the differences between vibration and oscillation

1. What is the definition of vibration?

Vibration refers to the rapid back-and-forth motion of an object around its equilibrium point. It can be caused by an external force or by a disturbance in the system.

2. What is the definition of oscillation?

Oscillation refers to the repetitive movement of an object around its equilibrium point, where the object returns to its starting position after each cycle. It can also be caused by an external force or disturbance.

3. How are vibration and oscillation different?

Vibration and oscillation are different in terms of the types of motion they involve. Vibration involves a rapid back-and-forth motion, while oscillation involves a repetitive movement around an equilibrium point. Additionally, vibration can be caused by an external force or disturbance, while oscillation can occur without any external force.

4. Can vibration and oscillation occur at the same time?

Yes, vibration and oscillation can occur simultaneously. In fact, oscillation can be seen as a type of vibration, but not all vibrations involve oscillation.

5. How are vibration and oscillation used in daily life?

Vibration and oscillation have various real-world applications. Vibration is used in musical instruments, engines, and electronic devices, while oscillation is used in timekeeping devices such as clocks and pendulums. They are also used in medical equipment, such as ultrasound machines, for diagnostic purposes.

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