Mechanical resonance occurs when an object or system vibrates at its natural frequency due to an external force. This can happen when a periodic force, like a sound wave or a push, matches the frequency at which the object naturally oscillates. As a result, the amplitude of the vibrations increases, leading to larger movements. A common example of mechanical resonance is seen in a swing. When someone pushes the swing at just the right moments, the swing goes higher and higher. This principle is also important in engineering, as it can affect structures like bridges and buildings, which must be designed to withstand resonant frequencies to avoid damage.