Simple harmonic oscillation using computer simulation: compilation of experiments for classroom investigations

Angelo Pacala, Frank

Abstract

The Simple Harmonic Oscillation (SHO) is a fundamental concept in physics, as it describes a large variety of phenomena that occur in nature, such as the motion of pendulums, mass-spring systems, and atoms. A thorough understanding of SHO can provide a good foundation for learning more advanced topics in physics, making it an essential topic for students to learn. Computer simulation technology provides an effective way to model SHO phenomena in the classroom. This technology allows students to explore SHO concepts visually and to replicate experiments that would be cumbersome or impossible to conduct otherwise. However, there are few compilations of SHO simulations appropriate for classroom use. This paper presented a compilation of SHO experiments that utilize computer simulation of PhET. The compiled experiments cover a broad range of SHO concepts, including proving the relationship of energy and amplitude, velocity and displacement, acceleration and displacement and types of damping. These experiments are suitable for classrooms of all levels and can be used to broaden and enrich students' understanding of SHO. Overall, the simulation-based experiments presented here offer a valuable resource for educators seeking to improve their students' understanding of SHO. Keywords: physics education, physics teaching and learning, simple harmonic motion, computer simulations, experimental method

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