Explain the terms period and frequency of oscillation,and state the relationship between them
The term period refers to the time it takes for one complete cycle of an oscillation. It is usually measured in seconds. For example, if an object completes one back-and-forth motion in 2 seconds, the period of its oscillation would be 2 seconds.
On the other hand, frequency represents the number of oscillations or cycles that occur in one second. It is usually measured in Hertz (Hz). For instance, if an object completes 5 back-and-forth motions in 1 second, the frequency of its oscillation would be 5 Hz.
The relationship between period and frequency is inverse, meaning they are reciprocals of each other. Mathematically, the relationship can be expressed as:
Frequency = 1 / Period,
or
Period = 1 / Frequency.
In simpler terms, if the frequency of an oscillation increases, the period decreases, and vice versa. This relationship applies to all types of oscillations, whether they are sound waves, mechanical vibrations, or any other form of periodic motion.