Oscillator Differentials: What's a physical meaning of complex part of the solution for coordinate change of the anharmonic oscillator?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the physical interpretation of the complex part of the solution for coordinate changes in anharmonic oscillators. Participants express confusion regarding the lack of clarity in existing explanations, particularly in relation to the complex solutions and their implications for damped oscillators. The mapping of states onto the complex plane reveals a helical graph that tapers exponentially in unforced scenarios, suggesting a tangible physical representation. The need for a detailed breakdown of the mathematical equations is emphasized, indicating a gap in understanding among forum members.

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  • Understanding of anharmonic oscillators
  • Familiarity with complex numbers in physics
  • Knowledge of damped and forced oscillators
  • Basic grasp of mathematical modeling in physics
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  • Study the mathematical framework of anharmonic oscillators
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DifferentialGalois
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Homework Statement
What's a physical meaning of, for example, complex part of the solution for coordinate change of the anharmonic oscillator?
Why after substitute (for diff. equation solve) for real x we can earn ##x = Re(z) + iIm(z)##? Is it because of substitutio?
Relevant Equations
##x = Re(z) + iIm(z)##
##x(t)=e^{i\alpha t}##
##x(t) = A e^{i \alpha_1 t} + B e^{i \alpha_2 t}##
I don't understand what the question means, and the answer is provided here: https://physics.stackexchange.com/a/35821/222321
Could someone provide a comprehensive one-by-one explanation.
 
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The discussion at that link does not, as far as I can see, provide a physical meaning to the complex solution. Neither does it address anharmonicity, so I assume you mean just a standard damped (maybe forced) oscillator.
If we map the state onto the complex plane, the graph as a function of time (an axis normal to that plane) becomes a helix, tapering exponentially in the case of unforced. I would think this could be realised in a physical system.
 
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bump
 
DifferentialGalois said:
bump
Why are you bumping your thread and not replying to @haruspex ?
 
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berkeman said:
Why are you bumping your thread and not replying to @haruspex ?
i need an explanation to the mathematical equations.
 
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DifferentialGalois said:
i need an explanation to the mathematical equations.
I thought I saw a pretty good explanation in the post by @haruspex -- Which part of what he wrote did you not understand?
 

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