The period (T) is inversely related to frequency (f) by the equation $T = \frac{1}{f}$.
In simple harmonic motion, the period is constant and does not depend on the amplitude of oscillation.
For a mass-spring system, the period is given by $T = 2\pi \sqrt{\frac{m}{k}}$ where m is mass and k is the spring constant.
For a simple pendulum, the period is approximated by $T = 2\pi \sqrt{\frac{L}{g}}$ where L is the length of the pendulum and g is the acceleration due to gravity.
The SI unit of period is seconds (s).
Review Questions
What is the relationship between period and frequency?
How does changing the mass in a mass-spring system affect its period?
What factors determine the period of a simple pendulum?
Related terms
Frequency: The number of complete cycles or oscillations per unit time, usually measured in Hertz (Hz).
Amplitude: The maximum displacement from equilibrium position in an oscillating system.
Simple Harmonic Motion: A type of periodic motion where the restoring force is directly proportional to displacement and acts in the direction opposite to that of displacement.