GATE ME 2014 Set 1 — Question 18

MCQ+1 / -0.33EasyDamped Free VibrationFree VibrationTheory of Machines & Vibrations

Theory of Machines & Vibrations → Free Vibration → Damped Free Vibration

Last updated 5 September 2026

Question

Critical damping is the

Correct answer (B) smallest amount of damping for which no oscillation occurs in free vibration Solution Critical damping is defined as the minimum (smallest) amount of damping required to return a displaced system to its equilibrium position without oscillation. If the damping is less than critical (underdamped), the system oscillates. If it is equal to or greater than critical (critically damped or overdamped), it does not oscillate. Therefore, critical damping is the smallest value of damping for which no oscillation occurs. Turn this into a strength. Explore AI-powered practice and doubt support with Success Tracker.

Review answer and solution without JavaScript

Interactive answer checking needs JavaScript. The published solution is available below.

Correct answer (B) smallest amount of damping for which no oscillation occurs in free vibration Solution Critical damping is defined as the minimum (smallest) amount of damping required to return a displaced system to its equilibrium position without oscillation. If the damping is less than critical (underdamped), the system oscillates. If it is equal to or greater than critical (critically damped or overdamped), it does not oscillate. Therefore, critical damping is the smallest value of damping for which no oscillation occurs.

Continue learning with Success Tracker

Use Success Tracker to ask about the reasoning, then try another GATE ME question to check your understanding.

AI-powered practice· Unlimited practice on eligible plans

PYQs with solutions: Attempt available previous-year questions, then compare your reasoning with the worked solution. Coverage varies by stream.
Practice that adapts: Choose a topic, work on weaker areas and bookmark questions to revisit. Your attempts feed your progress tracking.
AI doubt support: Ask follow-up questions about a step or concept while practising, instead of stopping at the final answer.

Unlimited practice is available on eligible plans. Free practice and AI usage have limits; check the current plan allowances before choosing.

This page stays readable without an account. AI responses can be wrong; check them against the solution and source material.