Final answer:
The motion of a follower acted on by a cam is considered periodic motion because it repeats regularly and predictably with each rotation of the cam. This motion is akin to simple harmonic motion, as both involve repetitive oscillations with a constant period and frequency.
Step-by-step explanation:
The motion of a follower acted on by a cam is periodic motion because the motion repeats itself at regular intervals. Periodic motion is characterized by a constant period, T, which is the time it takes for one complete oscillation, and a consistent frequency, f, which represents the number of oscillations per unit time. These concepts are deeply rooted in the study of simple harmonic motion, which is a special type of periodic motion observed when the restoring force is directly proportional to the displacement and acts in the opposite direction.
When a cam rotates, the follower rises and falls in a predictable pattern, repeating the motion with each rotation of the cam. The relationship between this motion and simple harmonic motion is similar because both involve repetitious oscillations that can be graphically represented by a wave-like pattern. With regard to a cam and follower, this wave-like pattern is seen as the follower moves up and down in a manner that can be mathematically described using the principles of simple harmonic motion.