Simple Harmonic Motion

Springs, pendulums, and oscillation

Simple Harmonic Motion (SHM) occurs when a restoring force is proportional to displacement: F = -kx. The period depends only on mass and spring constant, not on amplitude — a key insight that confuses many students. Energy constantly transforms between kinetic (maximum at equilibrium) and potential (maximum at extreme positions), with total mechanical energy conserved in the absence of damping.