Building My Physics Intuition: Seeking Good Simulations

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on the importance of simulations in understanding classical mechanics, particularly in the context of studying vibrations and waves. The individual is self-studying from a 1971 textbook and feels confident in grasping core concepts but recognizes a gap in practical intuition that simulations could fill. Recommendations include exploring free simulations from the University of Colorado and open-source physics simulations available through Compadre, which require Java. Additionally, accessing MIT's introductory courses on YouTube and specific physics classroom demonstration videos is suggested as a way to enhance learning through visual and interactive content.
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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!
 
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Try the open source physics simulations in Compadre. You must be able to run Java.
 
Hey, I am Andreas from Germany. I am currently 35 years old and I want to relearn math and physics. This is not one of these regular questions when it comes to this matter. So... I am very realistic about it. I know that there are severe contraints when it comes to selfstudy compared to a regular school and/or university (structure, peers, teachers, learning groups, tests, access to papers and so on) . I will never get a job in this field and I will never be taken serious by "real"...
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