Any motion that repeats itself after an interval of time is called vibration or oscillation. A vibratory system, in general, includes a means for storing potential energy (spring or elasticity - k), a means for storing kinetic energy (mass or inertia - m), and a means by which energy is gradually lost (damper - c).
On FIGURE 1, you can see an exemple of a discrete mathematical model (on the right) for the physical sistem motorbike (on the left).
The transverse Vibration of a String or Cable
In many cases, known as distributed or continuous systems, it is not possible to identify discrete masses, dampers, or springs. We must then consider the continuous distribution of the mass, damping, and elasticity and assume that each of the infinite number of points of the system can vibrate. See FIGURE 2.
If a system is modeled as a discrete one, the governing equations are ordinary differential equations, which are relatively easy to solve. On the other hand, if the system is modeled as a continuous one, the governing equations are partial differential equations, which are more difficult. The general equation which governs the vibration of a continuous system is:

The solution of the String you can find at the Ground Zero (which has both ends fixed) can be expressed as shown bellow.

The objective of this geocache is to make this fascinating field of study known, and, who knows, make you interested on it. Of course, the information contained in the listing are very incomplete, so if you want to learn more, check, for example:
SINGIRESU, S. Rao, et al. Mechanical vibrations. Addison Wesley, 1995
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