overcoupled

Overcoupled refers to a condition in coupled oscillators or circuits where the interaction between the components is too strong. In systems exhibiting resonance, overcoupling leads to a broader, less distinct resonance peak than ideal coupling. Instead of a single, sharp peak at the resonant frequency, the overcoupled system often shows two smaller peaks on either side of the original resonant frequency, with a dip in between.

This phenomenon can occur in various physical and electronic systems. For instance, in radio frequency circuits, such as tuned circuits, overcoupling can reduce selectivity and the ability to distinguish between closely spaced frequencies. In mechanical systems, like coupled pendulums, excessive interaction can lead to complex and less predictable motion patterns.

The opposite of overcoupled is undercoupled, where the interaction is too weak, resulting in a broad, low-amplitude resonance. Critically coupled systems achieve the sharpest resonance and are often the desired state for applications requiring precise frequency selection. The degree of coupling is a critical parameter that dictates the behavior and performance of coupled systems. Adjusting the coupling elements, such as the size of the capacitor or inductor in an electronic circuit, or the distance and connecting element between mechanical oscillators, allows for tuning the system towards undercoupling, critical coupling, or overcoupling.