Well, mostly the problem is that I missed class the day he went over why it all works, so I'm stuck memorizing the procedure with out really understanding it. Basically, I memorized how to get the coefficients for a differential equation describing the oscillating spring system, but I didn't get all the information about why it works. I get that the basic idea is to use Newton's Law that says force = ma, but I don't really understand how to get all the forces given the weight and elongation due to that weight (other than just memorizing a formula, that is). o.O
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No, I don't actually teach. I went back for me M.Ed. to make myself more employable, I don't have a teaching license. However, I live in a small area, and still can't find work in my field. And so, I'm currently teaching figure skating. Go figure. (Ok, so that was not intended to be a pun)
What differential equations show us is change over time, if I'm remembering correctly. And while a spring might not be as easy for you to visualize, think of a kid on a swing and that might be a more practical way to understand. To look at how the gravitational force is obviously greater at the beginning and the end and least at the middle, so a constantly changing system.
I can see your point that you find the math easier to deal with, whereas I'm the opposite and like the practical applications.
I hope that you finished your homework up ok, I know that stuff is tough (and spent many, many hours on it, myself).
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What's the problem with oscillations? (I do have a degree in physics...though it's been a few years, maybe I could help?)
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No, I don't actually teach. I went back for me M.Ed. to make myself more employable, I don't have a teaching license. However, I live in a small area, and still can't find work in my field. And so, I'm currently teaching figure skating. Go figure. (Ok, so that was not intended to be a pun)
What differential equations show us is change over time, if I'm remembering correctly. And while a spring might not be as easy for you to visualize, think of a kid on a swing and that might be a more practical way to understand. To look at how the gravitational force is obviously greater at the beginning and the end and least at the middle, so a constantly changing system.
I can see your point that you find the math easier to deal with, whereas I'm the opposite and like the practical applications.
I hope that you finished your homework up ok, I know that stuff is tough (and spent many, many hours on it, myself).
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