The massless spring modelling: difficulties of students in its conceptualization and treatment in physics textbooks used at the university initial cycle

Abstract

In Physics teaching, especially when the topics of Mechanics are addressed, there are several situations about masses linked by springs, in which springs are considered to have negligible mass with simplifying purposes. We present a study on the conceptualizations, from the dynamic and energetic points of view, achieved by university students who study scientific and technological careers, about this modelling. From the unpromising results obtained, we inquired, about the treatment of this idealization in Physics textbooks frequently used in the initial cycle, in which we researched if the physical consequences of considering springs massless are properly explained by the authors. From the results achieved we consider that establishing links between this idealization, and applying laws and physical principles when addressing problem situations may not be immediate for students; and, on the other hand, we found that not all the authors presented sufficient explanations about this simplifying assumption. Recommendations for teachers are mentioned.

Keywords

• Palabras claves: Mecánica introductoria, Enseñanza y aprendizaje, Libros de texto, Resortes, Modelizaciones. Keywords: Introductory Mechanics, Teaching and learning, Textbooks, Springs, Modelling.