What is the difference between mechanical and electrical resonance?

Mechanical resonance involves the vibration of physical objects, while electrical resonance involves the oscillation of electrical circuits.

Mechanical resonance occurs when a physical object vibrates at its natural frequency, which is determined by its physical properties such as mass and stiffness. When an external force is applied at this frequency, the object will vibrate with a larger amplitude, potentially causing damage or failure. Examples of mechanical resonance include the collapse of the Tacoma Narrows Bridge and the shattering of a wine glass when a singer hits a high note.

Electrical resonance occurs when an electrical circuit oscillates at its natural frequency, which is determined by its inductance, capacitance, and resistance. When an alternating current is applied at this frequency, the circuit will resonate and the voltage and current will have a larger amplitude. This can be useful in applications such as radio broadcasting and electric guitars, where resonance is used to amplify signals.

While both types of resonance involve the amplification of a frequency, they differ in their physical nature and the types of systems they apply to. Understanding these differences is important in designing and maintaining safe and efficient mechanical and electrical systems.