Wave function modelling of a pendulum-spring system exhibiting simple harmonic motion
Abstract
Instructors are always looking for ideas and methods to deliver lessons and it’s sometimes difficult to pass along abstract concepts to students. Here, we have developed an ‘all in one’ summary of wave mechanics from start to finish then connected to solving for the wave equation. The connections between underlying concepts are assembled here such that laboratory exercises flow from one concept to the next, while leaving opportunity for review and re-teaching supporting topics.
Using no special equipment, which is particularly useful for public schools, and technology that is widely available and often free to use, makes this approach especially attractive. The employment of mathematical transforms adds more here than a typical pendulum lab would contain while using most of the equations found in a typical physics textbook that apply to SHM, while simultaneously revisiting and reviewing previous concepts.- Publication:
-
Physics Education
- Pub Date:
- January 2016
- DOI:
- 10.1088/0031-9120/51/1/015016
- Bibcode:
- 2016PhyEd..51a5016O