simple harmonic oscillator

In physics, a simple harmonic oscillator describes repetitive movement back and forth through an equilibrium position. The maximum displacement on either side is equal, and the time for each complete vibration is constant. The force causing this motion is always directed toward the equilibrium position and is directly proportional to the distance from it, following Hooke's law: (F = -kx).12

A common example is a mass attached to a spring. When displaced, the spring's tension or compression creates a restoring force. At maximum displacement, velocity is zero, but acceleration is maximum. At the equilibrium position, velocity is maximum, and acceleration is zero. This motion is fundamental to timekeeping devices and is observed in systems like pendulums and vibrating particles in sound waves.13