Exam-style question
Try this first
How do free vibrations differ from forced vibrations?.
- A.Free vibrations occur without external forces, while forced vibrations require them.
- B.Free vibrations are always damped, while forced vibrations are not.
- C.Free vibrations occur at varying frequencies, while forced vibrations are constant.
- D.Free vibrations are always periodic, while forced vibrations are not.
Model answer
What a good answer should say
- Free vibrations occur without external forces, while forced vibrations require them.
Explanation
Why this works
Free vibrations are defined as oscillations that occur without any external force acting on the system, whereas forced vibrations are oscillations maintained by an external force. The most important difference is that free vibrations rely on the system's natural frequency, while forced vibrations are influenced by the frequency of the external force.
Free vibrations apply when a system is displaced and allowed to oscillate freely, while forced vibrations apply when an external force drives the oscillation. Therefore, the correct option accurately captures this distinction.
Common mistake
No common mistake is linked to this question yet.