What is the Difference Between Oscillation and Wave?

The main difference between oscillation and wave lies in their definitions and characteristics:

• Oscillation:
• Oscillation is a repetitive or periodic variation, typically in time, of some measure about a central value or between two or more different states.
• It is the back and forth motion of an object between two points of deformation.
• Oscillation occurs between the middle equilibrium point or between any two points.
• There are three types of oscillation: damped, undamped, and forced oscillation.
• Wave:
• A wave is a disturbance in a medium that carries energy without a net movement of particles.
• Waves are propagated through space.
• There are two types of wave propagation: longitudinal waves and transverse waves.
• A mechanically or electromagnetically driven oscillation is the source of a wave, and wave is caused due to the propagation of energy.

In summary, an oscillation is a repeating motion of an object between two points, while a wave is a disturbance that propagates through a medium, carrying energy without a net movement of particles. In some cases, oscillations can create waves, such as when a particle or system oscillating on a regular basis produces a wave due to the propagation of energy.

Comparative Table: Oscillation vs Wave

Here is a table comparing the differences between oscillation and wave:

In summary, an oscillation is a repetitive variation in time that is localized to a specific region, while a wave is a disturbance that propagates through space, carrying energy. Oscillations can create waves, and waves can be described by their period, frequency, and wavelength. Oscillations may or may not conserve internal energy, whereas energy is conserved in a wave and transferred through oscillation.