IB Physics C.4.3 Resonance in Oscillatory Systems Key Definitions

Amplitude is the maximum displacement of an oscillating object from its equilibrium position.

Heavy damping is defined as a type of damping where the body attains its equilibrium gradually without any oscillation.

Light damping is when the amplitude of each oscillation is fractionally less than the previous one

A natural frequency is a frequency at which the system naturally oscillates when not disturbed by external forces.

The large increase in amplitude that occurs when a system is driven by a periodic external force at a frequency equal to its natural frequency, so energy is transferred into the system most efficiently.