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Motion about a stable equilibrium is often harmonic, i.e. described by simple exponential functions. We begin by studying bounded undamped motion in one dimension, using Fourier series to determine under what conditions the motion becomes harmonic. Then we study harmonic damping, moving from Fourier series to integrals. We conclude with a look at harmonic motion in two dimensions. Class meetings alternate among a lecture/discussion room, a laboratory, and a computer classroom. We use the laboratory to study a mechanical pendulum and some electrical circuits. We use the computers to analyze laboratory data as well as visualize mathematical exercises.
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Last Update 9/24/09, webpage created by Corinne Manogue,
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