Resonance Physical scientists describe many varied examples of resonant phenomena. One example often quoted is the playground swing, which must be pushed at the correct intervals to attain a good amplitude of swing. A diver bounces on the board at the correct frequency to build up a good 'spring'. All such events depend upon resonance.
All objects have what is known as a natural frequency.
This is the frequency at which they will happily oscillate, and which, if given a sudden impulse, they will settle down into. Resonance occurs when we push or strike an object at or close to its resonant frequency. Pushing a swing at random intervals will not achieve very much, but as soon as we find the resonant frequency, the swing responds and goes much higher. The closer the applied or driving frequency approaches to the resonant frequency, the more the object responds and oscillates. Resonance is vital to musical instruments.