How can a harmonic oscillator model be used to describe ocean surface movement?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on modeling ocean surface movement using a harmonic oscillator framework. The user describes a system consisting of three coupled masses connected by springs, with a specific focus on the spring constants k and k'. The model treats the ocean waves as a single frequency, and the user seeks validation on the approach of using a mass-on-spring system within a spherical shell. The complexity of the setup is acknowledged, indicating a need for simplification or alternative modeling strategies.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of harmonic oscillators and their dynamics.
  • Familiarity with spring constants and coupled mass systems.
  • Basic knowledge of wave mechanics, particularly ocean wave modeling.
  • Experience with mathematical modeling techniques in physics.
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  • Explore advanced concepts in driven harmonic oscillators.
  • Research methods for simplifying coupled mass-spring systems.
  • Investigate ocean wave modeling techniques using Fourier analysis.
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Physicists, engineers, and researchers interested in modeling dynamic systems, particularly those focused on oceanography and wave mechanics.

JPBenowitz
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So I am trying to model a harmonic oscillator floating on the oceans surface. I treated this as a harmonic oscillator within a harmonic oscillator and I am not sure if I am heading in the correct direction. Just to be clear this isn't a homework problem just something I am working on.

The system consists of a mass connected by two springs inside a spherical shell lying on the oceans surface. I modeled the system with 3-coupled masses connected by spring constant k, where m1 and m3 are connected to another spring with constant k'. m1 and m3 are the ends of the spherical shell and k' is the spring constant I am modeling the ocean waves passing by with (a single frequency for now). For convenience I let m1=m2=m3. Am I on the right track? Is there a better way of thinking of this problem to more effectively model it?
 
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Oh I see, you have a mass-on-spring, and you put it on a boat (OK, a spherical boat)?

It's a driven harmonic oscillator.
Your setup is very complicated.
 

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