Exponentially damped oscillatory motion is often encountered early in a physics student's education. The closed form solution in the case of linear-in-velocity drag makes this an attractive first model, but realistic systems typically include constant- and/or quadratic-in-velocity drag. The equations of motion for non-linear drag can be solved numerically so that data can be fit using more accurate models. A data set is presented and analyzed which students can use to explore topics such as differing models of friction, numerical modeling techniques, and evaluating and quantifying the agreement between a model and data. Code and data are provided for physics instructors' use.

Modeling linear and non-linear drag in horizontal oscillatory motion

Numerical modeling is used extensively in astrophysics and -- when used in a classroom -- allows students to explore how models are built in physics in general and how model building is facilitated by computational methods in particular. It also exposes them to ubiquitous tools such as Python and Runge-Kutta. Using a relatively simple N-body simulation students are able to go beyond the usual Kepler's Third law introductory descriptions of orbital dynamics and examine 3-body and chaos effects. I will show some cases where students encounter questions which are central to the current state-of-the-art in planetary dynamics research.

Python N-body simulation of solar system dynamics

PAR-G.01 Computer Modeling and Computation in Labs

poster

The 2020 AAPT Virtual Summer Meeting brought together physics educators from around the globe to learn about the latest in physics theory, research methodology and education from leaders in their field. The program featured plenary speakers, sessions, workshops and many special activities.

For more information please visit the 2020 AAPT Virtual Summer Meeting page at: https://www.aapt.org/Conferences/SM2020/index.cfm.


AAPT SM 20

The 2020 AAPT Virtual Summer Meeting brought together physics educators from around the globe to learn about the latest in physics theory, research methodology and education from leaders in their field. 

Kyle Slinker

2

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Modeling linear and non-linear drag in horizontal oscillatory motion

Python N-body simulation of solar system dynamics

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