Explain the difference between forced vibration and resonance in an oscillating object.

Forced vibration:

The object oscillating will vibrate upwards and downwards with the same frequency the driving oscillation is at. The amplitude of the vibration increases as the frequency decreases and there will be a phase difference between the driving vibration and the forced vibration. When the driving frequency is much greater than the forced frequency then there is almost a 180o phase difference, however when the driving frequency is much less than the forced frequency, then there is almost no phase difference

Resonance: 

The frequency of the vibration is the same as the naturual frequency of the system. The rate of energy transfer from the driving force to the system is at a maximum and so the amplitude of the resonance is very large. The driving frequency is either 90o ahead or lags by 90o.

MP
Answered by Matthew P. Physics tutor

28085 Views

See similar Physics A Level tutors

Related Physics A Level answers

All answers ▸

State Newton's Law of Gravitation


Why is gravitational potential energy negative?


Explain how resonance occurs for a driven oscillating system and describe the effect of damping on the resonant frequency.


A nucleus of the stable isotope Pb(208,82) has more neutrons than protons. Explain why there is this imbalance between proton and neutron numbers by referring to the forces that operate within the nucleus.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning