Physics A-Level
Resonance
What Resonance means in Physics A-Level, as defined for AQA, OCR.
Definitions of Resonance
Exam boards and our study guides word this term in slightly different ways. Learn the version your board uses.
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Resonance in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: AQA
The condition where the driving frequency equals a natural frequency of the system, giving maximum energy transfer per cycle and a maximum steady-state amplitude.
The large-amplitude response when the driving frequency is equal to the system's natural frequency.
Occurs when the driving frequency equals the natural frequency, and amplitude reaches a maximum.
The condition where driving frequency equals natural frequency and amplitude reaches a maximum.
Topics that use Resonance
- Forced vibrations and resonance (A-level only) (AQA A-Level)
- Damping (OCR A-Level)
Related terms
- Damping
- Amplitude–driving frequency graph
- Critical damping
- Damping and energy dissipation
- Damping and resonance amplitude
- Forced oscillation
- Free oscillation
- Heavy damping
Using Resonance in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
Practise Physics questions
Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.
Start free
All Physics A-Level termsA week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge