1. Simple Harmonic Motion & Problem Solving Introduction

View the complete OCW resource: http://ocw.mit.edu/resources/res-8-00...
Instructor: Wit Busza

We discuss the role problem solving plays in the scientific method. Then we focus on problems of simple harmonic motion - harmonic oscillators with one degree of freedom in which damping (frictional or drag) forces can be ignored.

NOTE: These videos were originally produced as part of a physics course that is no longer available on OCW.

Chapters
0:00:00 Title slate
0:00:27 Why learn about waves and vibrations?
0:01:31 What is the Scientific Method?
0:03:19 Ideal spring example
0:10:27 Oscillations of a bird after landing on a branch (example of a more qualitative understanding of a physical phenomenon).
0:12:53 The LC circuit (charge and current oscillations in an electrical circuit).
0:24:17 Motion of a mass hanging from a spring (a simple example of the scientific method in action).
0:25:07 Oscillation of a hanging ruler pivoted at one end (example of SHM of a rigid body—problem involves the understanding of angular motion, torques and moment of inertia).

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