Amplitude, Period, Frequency and Phase

Amplitude, Period, Frequency and Phase

What is it?

Amplitude, period, frequency and phase are quantities used to describe the size and timing of an oscillation.

In simple words

• These quantities completely describe basic sinusoidal timing and size.

Full school-level explanation

Amplitude, period, frequency and phase are quantities used to describe the size and timing of an oscillation.

Amplitude `A`

Maximum magnitude of displacement from equilibrium.

Period `T`

Time required for one complete oscillation. Unit: second (s)

Frequency `f`

Number of complete oscillations per second. f=1T Unit: hertz (Hz)

Angular Frequency

**ω=2πf=2π/T**

Phase

For: x=A cos(ωt+φ) the quantity: ωt+φ is the phase. `φ` is the initial phase or phase constant. Phase tells where the oscillator is in its cycle.

Formula / Key Relation

**f=1T** **ω=2πf** **x=Acos(ωt+φ)**

Remember

• second (s)
• f=1T
• hertz (Hz)
• ω=2πf=2π/T
• x=A cos(ωt+φ)
• ωt+φ
• f=1T
• ω=2πf

Deeper understanding

Go deeper on Amplitude, Period, Frequency and Phase: connect the definition to reasons, relationships, exceptions, and exam wording.

Common mistakes

Exam focus

A → maximum displacement

Exam focus

Quick revision

• second (s)
• f=1T
• hertz (Hz)
• ω=2πf=2π/T
• Amplitude `A`: Maximum magnitude of displacement from equilibrium.
• Period `T`: Time required for one complete oscillation. Unit: second (s)

For long answers on Amplitude, Period, Frequency and Phase: define clearly → explain the main parts → give one example → state one exam caution.