I A simple way to vizualize non-linear waves with a star Slinky toy

  • Thread starter Thread starter mike2020
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Slinky
Click For Summary
Star-shaped Slinky toys can effectively demonstrate non-linear waves by forming periodic patterns when extended. This visualization aids in teaching the concept of non-linear waves and signals to students. The connection between the star shape and the dynamical phase-space of non-linear waves is worth exploring further. Linear waves are typically sinusoidal, while non-linear waves may exhibit more complex behavior, especially in dispersive media. Overall, using a star Slinky toy provides an engaging way to illustrate these wave concepts.
mike2020
Messages
5
Reaction score
2
TL;DR
teaching non-linear waves with a star-shaped Slinky toy
Some Slinky toys are star-shaped (1st picture), like my daughter's one. Then, when extending them , it forms a periodic pattern: a non-linear wave!
It could be helpful to teach what is a nonlinear-wave or signal to students. The star-shape may be related to the dynamical phase-space of this non-linear wave. Any thoughts on this connection?
 

Attachments

  • 20230426_210322.jpg
    20230426_210322.jpg
    9.4 KB · Views: 124
  • 20230426_210450.jpg
    20230426_210450.jpg
    45.9 KB · Views: 117
Physics news on Phys.org
mike2020 said:
TL;DR Summary: teaching non-linear waves with a star-shaped Slinky toy

what is a nonlinear-wave or signal
Could you give some reference to this term please?

What would a "linear wave" look like? Would it be sinusoidal? Are you describing a wave travelling through a non linear, dispersive medium?
 
Reply
  • Like
Likes jim mcnamara

Thread 'Analog power supply output question'

I'm setting up an analog power supply. I have the transformer bridge and filter capacitors so far. The transformer puts out 30 volts. I am currently using two parallel power transistors and a variable resistor to set the output. It also has a meter to monitor voltage. The question is this. How do I set up a single transistor to remove whats left of the ripple after the filter capacitors. It has to vary along with the control transistors to be constant in its ripple removing. The bases of the...
View full post »

Similar threads

I How do shockwaves in a 1D linear lattice work?
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
1K
In search of a non-linear way to prepare students for this unique exam
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
3K
How Do Waves Propagate on a String?
  • · Replies 0 ·
Replies
0
Views
5K
I Hidden phase in polarization tests of Bell's inequality?
  • · Replies 49 ·
2
Replies
49
Views
5K
A Falsifications and constraints due to GW measurements
  • · Replies 19 ·
Replies
19
Views
5K
I Two recent tests of loop quantum gravity theory
  • · Replies 15 ·
Replies
15
Views
5K
A Spacetime Engineering by Superposition of GWs: Feasible in Theory?
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
What if complex biological systems emerged as a result of a wave function?
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
3K
How Do Neutrino Oscillations Reveal the Nature of Neutrinos?
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
3K
Want a book/notes that cover this syllabus (dynamical systems).
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K