How a swing behaves (Q1083238)
From MaRDI portal
scientific article
Language | Label | Description | Also known as |
---|---|---|---|
English | How a swing behaves |
scientific article |
Statements
How a swing behaves (English)
0 references
1986
0 references
This paper is an advertisement for \textit{R. MacKay}'s thesis [Princeton University, Univ. Microfilm Intern., Ann Arbor, MI (order {\#}8301411)]. The present state of art of the theory of asymptotic behaviour of two conservative, coupled, nonlinear oscillators is dealt with. The author gives first a historical introduction, then ''the general nature'' of the problem is described. The role of area preserving maps in this theory is emphasized, for this purpose the swing with oscillating length is introduced as a model for explanation; the notion of KAM (Kolmogorov- Arnold-Moser) curves appears here too. The text shows further possibility in physical terms how the parametric instability (\(\equiv\) period doubling) the stability of periodic orbits destroys, and island structures disintegrate into chaos with increasing perturbation. Surface of the critical maps (which represents the transition from isolated islands to chaotic motion) is practically characterized. Notion of winding number and using of continued fractions is recapitulated. Importance of renormalization is described. Paper is a large collection of very interesting physical interpretations for some mathematical facts and methods and also a stimulus for mathematicians.
0 references
asymptotic behaviour
0 references
conservative, coupled, nonlinear oscillators
0 references
oscillating length
0 references
parametric instability
0 references
period doubling
0 references
stability of periodic orbits
0 references
island structures
0 references
chaos
0 references
increasing perturbation
0 references
critical maps
0 references
transition from isolated islands to chaotic motion
0 references
winding number
0 references
continued fractions
0 references
renormalization
0 references