What term describes the phenomenon in which an object vibrates with dramatically increased amplitude when it is driven at its own natural frequency?

Explanation

Resonance occurs when an object is driven, or repeatedly pushed, at a frequency that matches its own natural frequency of vibration, causing the resulting vibrations to build up and dramatically increase in amplitude compared to being driven at other, non-matching frequencies. A commonly cited everyday example is pushing a child on a playground swing at just the right consistent rhythm to make the swing go progressively higher with relatively little added effort. While resonance has many useful applications, such as in musical instruments, engineers must also carefully consider and avoid unwanted resonance in structures like bridges, where it could otherwise potentially cause serious structural damage. Explore more Everyday Science MCQs on mcqstutor to keep practicing.