Why is the motion of a piston considered to be simple harmonic motion?

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The motion of a piston is considered simple harmonic motion (SHM) because it can exhibit oscillatory behavior similar to that of a pendulum, particularly under ideal conditions. The mass of the piston and connecting rod does influence the system, primarily affecting the time period of the motion rather than disqualifying it from being SHM. In an idealized scenario with negligible damping forces, the piston can oscillate back and forth in a manner consistent with SHM. The discussion highlights that while pistons can have various motions, they can still demonstrate SHM characteristics under specific conditions. Understanding these principles is essential for analyzing piston dynamics in mechanical systems.
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I know this is simple, but I don't fully understand why the motion of a piston is considered to be simple harmonic? Wouldn't the piston and connecting rod have mass?
 
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With an infinitely long connecting rod, you would have comparable acceleration and velocity values for the piston and crank pin.
 
A piston can have any motion you want. Are you talking about some very specific application of a piston?
 
Simple harmonic motion is for small vibrations in an isolated system(free from damping forces). If you have a pendulum of mass 20g it can also undergo shm. Mass just affects it's time period. A piston can also undergo shm.
 

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