I would submit that an oscillating function (of a single variable) is one
whose slope repeatedly changes sign. A periodic function is one which
exactly repeats itself after a definite period (of the independent
variable).
Ex: A damped harmonic oscillation is not periodic.
Also see comments embedded below:
Bob Sciamanda
Physics, Edinboro Univ of PA (Em) http://www.velocity.net/~trebor/
trebor@velocity.net
----- Original Message -----
From: "Robert Cohen" <Robert.Cohen@PO-BOX.ESU.EDU>
To: <PHYS-L@LISTS.NAU.EDU>
Sent: Tuesday, June 22, 2004 9:48 AM
Subject: Periodic motion vs. oscillation
| What, if any, is the difference between periodic motion and
| oscillations?
|
| For example, the motion of the earth around the sun is an example of
| periodic motion. But is it an example of an oscillation?
The function r(theta) would be an oscillating (and periodic) function.
The functions r(time) and Theta (time) would also be oscillatory and
periodic.
(These statements assume pure Keplerian, conic section orbits , with no
perturbations or decay.)
| I thought that an oscillation is when something is forced back to some
| equilibrium position (like a vibration). Periodic motion, on the other
| hand, is something that repeats itself (i.e., is cyclic). Perhaps an
| oscillation is an example of periodic motion but not all periodic
| motions are oscillations?
|
| ____________________________________________________
| Robert Cohen; 570-422-3428; www.esu.edu/~bbq
| East Stroudsburg University; E. Stroudsburg, PA 18301