Simple harmonic motion is typified by the motion of a mass on a spring when it is subject to the linear elastic restoring force given by Hooke's Law. The motion is sinusoidal in time and demonstrates a single resonant frequency.
Mass on Spring: Motion Sequence
A mass on a spring will trace out a sinusoidal pattern as a function of time, as will any object vibrating in simple harmonic motion. One way to visualize this pattern is to walk in a straight line at constant speed while carrying the vibrating mass. Then the mass will trace out a sinusoidal path in space as well as time.
Concept of periodic motion
