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Waves, Oscillations & Acoustics

Normal Modes

Characteristic independent natural patterns of motion in which all parts of an oscillating system move sinusoidally at the same natural frequency.

Governing formula f_n = n f1 = n v / (2 L)
SI unit Hz

In depth

Any arbitrary motion of a linear system can be expressed as a linear combination of its fundamental normal modes.

Examples in the real world

Resonant vibrational modes of a drumhead or structural vibration modes of a skyscraper during an earthquake.