The Student Room Group

Harmonic vs. non-harmonic motion

"Is the difference between harmonic and non-harmonic motion important, either quantitatively or qualitatively?"

I have no ******* clue what this wants from me. I have a headache :frown:

edit: I understand the difference between the two graphically, etc. Harmonic is periodic, periodic is not necessarily harmonic. And so on.
Reply 1
Yes, there is a difference. Harmonic motion is governed by sinusoidal motion. Any periodic motion that isn't sinusoidal is anharmonic/non-harmonic.

e.g.
x¨=Ax\ddot x = - Ax gives harmonic (SHM) motion
x¨=AxBx3\ddot x = -A x - B x^3 would give a form of anharmonic motion
Reply 2
How are energy levels in Non-harmonic oscillators derived and what is the role of the Kerr effect in a Kerr Resonator that does not allow the energy levels to get uniform? can anyone help me to answer this question?