Simulations of Oscillatory Systems

Eugene I. Butikov is a professor of physics at St. Petersburg State University. His work focuses on solid-state physics and the theory of nonlinear oscillations as well as developing interactive educational software for university-level physics students.

"... provides a hands-on way of visualizing and understanding the fundamental concepts of the physics of oscillations. ... conveniently structured according to mathematical complexity. Each chapter in Part I contains activities, questions, exercises, and problems of varying levels of difficulty, from straightforward to quite challenging. Part II presents more sophisticated, highly mathematical material that delves into the serious theoretical background for the computer-aided study of oscillations. The software package allows students to observe the motion of linear and nonlinear mechanical oscillatory systems and to obtain plots of the variables that describe the systems along with phase diagrams and plots of energy transformations. These computer simulations provide clear, vivid illustrations of oscillations in various physical systems, bringing to life many abstract concepts, developing students' physical intuition, and complementing the analytical study of the subject. Students can investigate phenomena that would otherwise be difficult to study in a more conventional manner. Exceptionally well written, organized and presented ... an ideal textbook for university-level physics curriculums and academic library reference collections."—Midwest Book Review, April 2015

• Introduction. Oscillations in Simple Systems: Free Oscillations of a Linear Oscillator. Torsion Spring Oscillator with Dry Friction. Forced Oscillations in a Linear System. Square-Wave Excitation of a Linear Oscillator. Parametric Excitation of Oscillations. Sinusoidal Modulation of the Parameter. Nonlinear Oscillations: Free Oscillations of the Rigid Pendulum. Rigid Planar Pendulum under Sinusoidal Forcing. Pendulum with a Square-Wave Modulated Length. Rigid Pendulum with Oscillating Pivot. Torsion Pendulum with Dry and Viscous Damping. Bibliography. Index.