Types of Motion

Linear Motion

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Linear movement is movement in a straight line.

An example would be a car traveling along a straight road.

The symbol used to show linear motions is:

Reciprocating Motion

Reciprocating motion is moving forwards and backward in a straight line.

An example would be a sewing machine needle or a piston in an engine.

The symbol for reciprocating motion is:

Rotary Motion

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Rotary motion is a movement in a circle.

An example is a car wheel and a circular saw.

The symbol for rotary motion is:

Oscillating Motion

Oscillating motion is moving forwards and backward in an arc.

A clock pendulum and a playground swing are examples of oscillating motion.

The symbol for reciprocating motion is:

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