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LESSON 07

Resonance

When small pushes create huge vibrations.

Frequency1.00×
Amplitude1.00×

Every object has natural frequencies. When you push it at one of those frequencies, the amplitude grows dramatically — that's resonance.

Natural frequency

The frequency at which a system naturally vibrates when disturbed.

Forced resonance

Apply a driving force at the natural frequency, and energy builds up wave after wave.

Real-world impact

Resonance can shatter wine glasses, collapse bridges (Tacoma Narrows), and make microwave ovens heat food.

Real-life applications

  • MRI machines
  • Wineglass singing
  • Tuning forks
  • Earthquake-safe buildings

Summary

  • Resonance = matching the natural frequency.
  • Small input → large oscillation.

Check Yourself

Q1.Resonance occurs when the driving frequency equals the…