What does "mechanical resonance" refer to?

Mechanical resonance refers to the tendency of a system to oscillate at its natural frequency when it is disturbed. Every physical system that can oscillate has a natural frequency, which is determined by its physical properties, such as mass and stiffness. When external forces or disturbances occur at or near this frequency, the amplitude of the oscillations can increase significantly, leading to resonance.

When a system resonates, it can store and transfer energy efficiently, which is why understanding this phenomenon is crucial in various engineering applications. For example, in mechanical systems, resonance can lead to increased vibrations that may need to be controlled or mitigated to prevent structural failure or malfunction. Thus, option B captures the essence of mechanical resonance accurately, reflecting its foundational role in dynamics and oscillatory behavior.