The Brachistochrone Curve - Which theories apply?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the Brachistochrone curve, particularly focusing on the theories applicable to it. Participants explore the underlying physics concepts, including gravitational acceleration, and seek clarification on these theories as part of a physics exam project.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • Frederik L. Rasmussen expresses uncertainty about the theories behind the Brachistochrone curve, suggesting it relates to gravitational acceleration.
  • Some participants inquire about the research Frederik has conducted online, implying a need for specific questions to facilitate understanding.
  • There is a suggestion that existing online resources may provide comprehensive material, including diagrams, which could be more informative than forum responses.
  • Participants ask about Frederik's progress on the project and his understanding of the mathematical concepts involved.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

The discussion does not reach a consensus on the specific theories behind the Brachistochrone curve, and multiple viewpoints on how to approach the topic remain present.

Contextual Notes

Participants note potential language barriers affecting comprehension of available resources, which may limit the effectiveness of self-study for some individuals.

FredLau
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Hello,
I am doing a physics exam, where I have chosen to create a Brachistochrone curve, and perform various tests on it.
Furthermore, I also have to write a physics report, containing the theory behind the curve, but I am not 100% sure what some of the theories behind the curve are. I suppose it would apply to gravitational acceleration, since it is only affected by that force. But could anyone maybe explain to me just a bit more about the theory behind this curve? Thank you!

- Frederik L. Rasmussen
 
Physics news on Phys.org
What did you find using the Internet?
 
PeroK said:
What did you find using the Internet?
Don't worry, I have been looking on the internet!
But I am not a native English speaker, so a lot of the things I have been able to find has been somewhat hard for me to understand..
So I thought it would be easier to ask in here.
 
FredLau said:
Don't worry, I have been looking on the internet!
But I am not a native English speaker, so a lot of the things I have been able to find has been somewhat hard for me to understand..
So I thought it would be easier to ask in here.

There must be a lot of available material with diagrams and which took hours to put together, so it's impossible for anyone here to do better than that. What we can do is answer specific questions about something you don't understand.

Where havve you got to in your project? Do you understand the problem? The idea behind the solution? What level of mathematics do you know?
 

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