SHM: Frequency & Period Unaffected by Amplitude

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The frequency and period of simple harmonic motion remain constant regardless of amplitude changes. While it may seem intuitive that larger amplitudes would increase time and decrease frequency, the speed of the oscillator adjusts accordingly. As amplitude increases, the object moves faster, which compensates for the longer distance traveled. This relationship ensures that both frequency and period stay unaffected by amplitude variations. The underlying reasons for this behavior can be explored further, blending physics with philosophical inquiry.
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The frequency and the period of Simple harmonic motion don't depend on the amplitude. Meaning that changing the amplitude of a simple harmonic oscillator doesn't affect its frequency..


amplitude is the max displacement. Doesn't it make sense that if the max displacement is larger, then time will increase and frequency will decrease??
 
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gkangelexa said:
amplitude is the max displacement. Doesn't it make sense that if the max displacement is larger, then time will increase and frequency will decrease??
If the speed remained fixed, then that reasoning would work. But the speed doesn't remain fixed. With a greater amplitude, the object ends up moving faster along the path. Interestingly, that increased speed is exactly enough to keep the period and frequency constant.
 
cool! thanks! do we know why that happens? or is that a philosophical question?
 

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