In control theory and system dynamics, damped systems are classified based on the behavior of their response to a disturbance or input.
- Overdamped: The system returns to equilibrium without oscillating.
- Critically damped: The system returns to equilibrium as quickly as possible without oscillating.
- Underdamped: The system oscillates (at reduced frequency compared to theundamped case) with the amplitude gradually decreasing to zero.
- Undamped: The system oscillates at its natural resonant frequency (ωo).