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7.1 Defining Simple Harmonic Motion (SHM)

Part of Oscillations in AP® Physics C: Mechanics. Read the opening section, then create a free account for the full interactive lesson, practice, and progress tracking.

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Periodic Motion

In physics, periodic motion refers to any motion that repeats itself at regular time intervals. In this type of motion, an object moves in a predictable, cyclic pattern, returning to a specific position or state after a fixed period. Simple harmonic motion (SHM) is a special case of periodic motion that follows strict mathematical relationships.

In this unit

5 lessons

  1. 7.1Defining Simple Harmonic Motion (SHM)This lesson
  2. 7.2Frequency and Period of SHMPreview lesson
  3. 7.3Representing and Analyzing SHMPreview lesson
  4. 7.4Energy of Simple Harmonic OscillatorsPreview lesson
  5. 7.5Simple and Physical PendulumsPreview lesson

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