Is Double Pendulum taught to all Physics majors?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on the double pendulum as a teaching tool in physics education, specifically within the context of Lagrangian mechanics. Participants agree that the double pendulum is a common example encountered by physics majors, typically introduced in the first or second year of study. It is recognized for its effectiveness in illustrating the importance of selecting appropriate analytical tools for solving complex problems. Additionally, the coupled pendulum is mentioned as another engaging example used in similar educational contexts. Overall, the double pendulum is affirmed as a foundational concept in physics curricula.
RipVanCalcNoob
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Pretty sure it's common.
We had it in the end of the first year, in theoretical mechanics.
 
I too think it is common. We learned it at second year.
One of those classics which fits well to only one toolset - thus perfect to direct pupils to respect that toolset and so it can teach to choose the right tool for the job.
 
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RipVanCalcNoob said:
Is this some esoteric aspect of Physics, that few ever see,
or is this part of the common core that almost every Physics major sees?

http://scienceworld.wolfram.com/physics/DoublePendulum.html

The double pendulum is a rather common example that is used in teaching Lagrangian mechanics. I certainly remember tackling this problem a very long time ago.

Zz.
 
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ZapperZ said:
The double pendulum is a rather common example that is used in teaching Lagrangian mechanics. I certainly remember tackling this problem a very long time ago.

Zz.
Yep, me too. That and spring coupled pendulums.
 
Thank you.
The coupled variant was also very cool !
 
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