Building My Physics Intuition: Seeking Good Simulations

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around seeking recommendations for good simulations to enhance understanding of classical mechanics, particularly in the context of waves. Participants share resources and suggestions relevant to an introductory, university-level waves course.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses a desire for simulations to complement their self-study of classical mechanics and waves.
  • Another participant suggests using open source physics simulations available in Compadre, noting the requirement to run Java.
  • A different participant recommends watching past MIT introductory courses on YouTube, specifically mentioning a search for "Vibrations and Waves in PHYSICS classroom demonstrations."
  • Additional links to physics simulation resources are provided, including a site by Falstad and another from Boston University.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the value of simulations for learning but present different specific resources and approaches without any consensus on a single best option.

Contextual Notes

Some suggestions depend on the availability of specific software (e.g., Java) and may not cover all aspects of waves comprehensively.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals teaching themselves classical mechanics or studying waves at an introductory university level may find these simulation resources beneficial.

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TL;DR Summary: Seeking good simulations to build my intuition

Hi everyone,

I am currently teaching myself classical mechanics, and am 3/4 of the way through "Vibrations and Waves," a textbook from 1971 which was used in the MIT course.

It's going okay - I feel like I have a decent grasp of the core concepts, and I've been doing a decent number of the problems, so that helps. I feel like I can get a good understanding of university level physics even though I am not studying it formally.

One thing, however, that I do believe I am missing out on through my informal study is simulations. I know that University of Colorado produces a few good free ones. Can anyone recommend other good simulations which are relevant for an introductory, university-level waves course?

Thanks!
 
Last edited by a moderator:
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Try the open source physics simulations in Compadre. You must be able to run Java.
 

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