Fabulous Perfect Spring, The

Synopsis

Considers periodic solutions of second-order differential equations, focusing on the mathematical methods of solving them and the graphical interpretation of their solutions. The fabulous perfect spring is a spring that once set in oscillation will continue ad infinitum. The type of motion followed by the point mass on the spring is simple harmonic motion (SHM). The energy transitions throughout the motion - potnetial to kinetic and vice versa, are illustrated and a general statement on the conditions for SHM is made in terms of the potential energy function. A particle whose potential energy function is a perfect quadratic will move with SHM. The point mass on the end of the fabulous perfect spring is a case in point. Another is a point moving in a cycloidal path - the programme uses a cycloidal pendulum.

Series

Mathematical Models and Methods, Course Mst204

Language

English

Country

Great Britain

Medium

Video; Videocassette. Standard formats. col. 23 min.

Year of production

1982

Availability

OUT OF DISTRIBUTION

Subjects

Mathematics

Keywords

differential equations; equations; simple harmonic motion

Production Company

Name

BBC Open University Productions

Distributor

Name

Open University Worldwide

Web

http://www.ouw.co.uk External site opens in new window

Phone

+44 (0) 1908 274066

Address

Walton Hall
Milton Keynes
MK7 6AA

Notes

NB. As of May 2016 Open University Worldwide are no longer distributing DVDs. They have posted this message on their website: ‘Unfortunately Open University Worldwide Limited has decided that product sales are no longer viable given the reduced funding to Higher Education institutions and diminishing demand for the products we have traditionally stocked. At present the Open University Students Association (OUSA) will continue to sell the "Good Study Guide", and we are in discussion with other possible distributors to continue to make The Open University’s products available for purchase. As soon as we have any information on other channels of distribution we will update this notice’. Some products are still available via second hand dealers on Amazon.co.uk