Dynamic Simulation of Theoretical Mechanics Experiments using Maple

Abstract

Some experimental phenomena in theoretical mechanics are not suited for realization in an ordinary laboratory. Virtual experiments in theoretical mechanics can be realized using Maple, a scientific computing software. Although most previous studies have only drawn static images of the trajectories of objects, this thesis investigates the use of Maple’s animation capabilities to achieve dynamic simulations of theoretical mechanics experiments. The benefits of dynamic simulation are that the trajectory of the object over time can be seen and the motion characteristics of the object, such as the direction of approach of the incoming track, can be fully understood. The dynamic simulation of theoretical mechanics experiments will fully mobilize students’ interest in learning, transform abstract physical models into visual physical images and deepen their understanding of physical phenomena. In addition, virtual experiments enable students to train their programming skills and improve their scientific research literacy.

Keywords

• maple
• theoretical mechanics
• educational technology
• animation simulation.