This property describes a mechanical oscillator whose restoring force is not strictly proportional to its displacement. In real-world springs and pendulums, large deflections introduce non-linear forces that change the oscillation frequency, requiring complex mathematical models to predict resonance and fatigue accurately.
Heard on the job
The suspension spring exhibits significant anharmonicity at full compression, which explains the harsh ride over deep ruts.
Related terms
Simple harmonic motion
A periodic oscillation where the restoring force is directly proportional to the displacement.
Normal mode
A pattern of motion in which all parts of a system oscillate with the same frequency and fixed phase.
Damping
The dissipation of energy in a vibrating system to reduce the amplitude of oscillations over time.