Physics Program
Eastern Oregon University
La Grande, OR 97850
npreyer@eou.edu
N. W. Preyer
Copyright 1995 by the American Association of Physics Teachers
The coupled harmonic oscillator, traditionally reserved for upper-level physics courses, is studied with computer-based tools at a level appropriate for introductory college physics students. This suggests that other important systems, usually considered too complicated for the introductory physics class, are in fact very suitable when studied with modern techniques.
Microcomputer-based laboratory (MBL) experiments have become a standard part of the introductory physics course. Generally the mechanics experiments have concentrated on developing qualitative concepts of velocity, acceleration, force, etc., as well as graphic relations between these concepts.
Other experiments, such as non-linear oscillators[1] or coupled harmonic oscillators,[2] are considered ``too advanced'' for freshmen, generally because of the level of mathematics involved. These more advanced labs can offer additional insights and reinforce physical concepts, and thus be valuable to students at all levels. MBL techniques can let freshmen physics students investigate these more complex systems at a level appropriate for an independent project.