PhysicsLab
← all cardsTopic 8 · Oscillations · Forced oscillations & resonance

The 4-mark resonance answer

● VERBATIM — examined word-for-word

(1) System has natural frequency f₀. (2) Periodic driver transfers energy to it. (3) As f_d → f₀ the rate of energy transfer increases, so amplitude grows. (4) At f_d = f₀, energy transfer is at the maximum rate and amplitude is maximum — resonance. (+ damping lowers and broadens the peak.)

What this actually means

The model paragraph, four steps: the system has a natural frequency f₀; the periodic driver transfers energy to it; as f_d approaches f₀ the rate of energy transfer increases, so the amplitude grows; at f_d = f₀ the energy transfer is at its maximum rate and the amplitude is maximum. That is resonance.

Add the damping rider when the question shows curves: heavier damping lowers and broadens the peak.

Deploy it verbatim. It is a mark scheme wearing paragraph clothing.

Prove it — watch it be true

  1. Sweep f_d slowly from far below f₀
  2. Watch the amplitude climb as the match improves: step 3 happening live
  3. Park at f_d = f₀: maximum energy transfer, maximum amplitude — step 4
Open resonance lab →