A-Level Project Ideas: Maths & Physics Coursework

[tomfitzyuk]

Hey,

I'm currently studying Maths, Further Maths, Physics and Computing A-Levels in the UK (it's high school for any Americans) and in Physics we need to do coursework on what we want, given a few limitations.

The topic I do in my coursework needs to be testable in an average college (i.e. nothing nuclear or too extreme).

I want the project to be as Mathsy as possible so I was thinking with a lot of differential equations in it. My teacher recommended moments of inertia and the motion of a pendulum (we've already done simple harmonic motion).

Is there any other topics you could recommend?

Thanks in Advance
Tom

 

[AndyW]

Hi Tom,

It's great to hear that you are interested in incorporating differential equations into your physics coursework. There are certainly many interesting and testable topics that you could explore in this area. Here are a few suggestions:

1. Fluid dynamics: You could study the motion of fluids using differential equations and explore topics such as Bernoulli's equation, the Navier-Stokes equations, and the concept of laminar and turbulent flow.

2. Electrical circuits: You could investigate the behavior of electrical circuits using differential equations, focusing on topics such as RLC circuits, Kirchhoff's laws, and the behavior of different types of circuit elements.

3. Oscillations and waves: Building on your previous coursework on simple harmonic motion, you could explore more complex oscillatory systems using differential equations. This could include topics such as damped and forced oscillations, coupled oscillators, and wave propagation.

4. Chaos theory: This is a fascinating area of study that involves using differential equations to model seemingly random and unpredictable systems. You could explore topics such as the logistic map, the Lorenz system, and the butterfly effect.

Ultimately, the best topic for your coursework will depend on your interests and the resources available to you. I would recommend discussing your ideas with your teacher and doing some further research to find a topic that excites you and is feasible to test in your college environment. Best of luck with your project!

 

[sir-pinski]

Hi Tom,

There are many interesting and challenging project ideas that combine Maths and Physics. Here are a few suggestions to consider:

1. Chaos theory: You could explore the concept of chaos theory and how it applies to systems like the double pendulum or the Lorenz system. This would involve using differential equations and computer simulations to analyze the behavior of these systems.

2. Fluid dynamics: You could investigate the physics of fluids, such as the Bernoulli's equation and the Navier-Stokes equations, and use them to model the flow of fluids in different scenarios. This could involve experiments, simulations, and mathematical calculations.

3. Fractals: Fractals are geometric patterns that repeat at different scales, and they can be found in many natural phenomena. You could research and explore the mathematics behind fractals and create your own fractal patterns using mathematical equations.

4. Optics and light: You could investigate the properties of light and how it behaves in different mediums, such as lenses and prisms. This could involve conducting experiments and using mathematical equations to analyze the results.

5. Game theory: Game theory applies mathematical models to analyze decision-making in competitive situations. You could research and apply game theory to real-life scenarios, such as sports or economic markets.

These are just a few ideas to get you started, but there are many other interesting topics you could explore. I would recommend discussing your ideas with your teacher and doing some research to find a topic that interests you and is feasible within the limitations given. Good luck with your project!