Understand how natural frequency (ωn = √(k/m)) and damping ratio (ζ = c/(2√(km))) determine whether a released mass oscillates forever, decays while oscillating, or returns to rest without ever overshooting.
Natural frequency: ωn = √(k/m)Damping ratio: ζ = c / (2√(km))ζ = 0: undamped · 0 < ζ < 1: underdamped · ζ = 1: critically damped · ζ > 1: overdampedKeep damping at 0. Release the mass and confirm it oscillates forever at constant amplitude — the natural frequency of the system.
Ready to check