Distinguish between free vibrations and forced vibrations (Two points).
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In free vibrations, the system oscillates at its own natural frequency, while in forced vibrations, the system is forced to vibrate at the frequency of the applied external force.
Step 1: Free Vibrations.
Free vibrations occur when a body or system vibrates without any external force acting on it, after an initial displacement. The system vibrates at its natural frequency, and the amplitude of vibration decreases over time due to damping forces like friction or air resistance.
Step 2: Forced Vibrations.
Forced vibrations happen when an external force is applied to a system, causing it to vibrate at the frequency of the external force. In this case, even if the system has a natural frequency, the external force dominates and dictates the vibration frequency.