...
Page Contents | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
...
Contributing to the WIKI
Most of the pages on the WIKI are open for contributions, and all are open for comments. If you think something could be more clear or should be longer/shorter/whatever, please comment. If you see a way to improve the WIKI yourself, feel free (with the exception of the model templates), but please read the Copyright and Waiver first.
...
WIKI-specific Notation
As you read through this wiki, you will periodically come upon boxes containing four types of comments:
...
| Tip |
|---|
Green boxes contain tips for checking solutions. |
...
Modeling-specific Terms
Some terms which are used in traditional physics, but take on a larger significance in modeling are:
...
You can click on the terms to see their definition pages, which contain more detailed definitions.
...
Example Problems
One of the most important features of the WIKI is its collection of solved examples. These examples are solved using the modeling approach, so they give examples of how to define a system and interactions.
...
Model Templates
The hierarchy of mechanics models given in this WIKI defines each model in a general sense according to the following template:
Description and Assumptions
A short technical definition of the model.
Problem Cues
Key words or phrases to look for in a problem that might indicate this model is a reasonable choice to solve the problem.
Prerequisite Knowledge
Prior Models
Models that are usually introduced before the model currently being defined. Terms and ideas from the prior models may appear in the definition page for the current model.
Vocabulary and Procedures
WIKI pages that define vocabulary and ideas that are central to the model being defined.
System
What kinds of constituents are allowed to be in the system when this model is being applied.
Interactions
A list of the interactions that must be considered when this model is being applied. Often, this section will also note types of interactions that can be ignored when this model is used.
Model
Relevant Definitions
A list of equations that define quantities used in the model.
Law or Laws of Change
The fundamental equation(s) that are implied when this model is chosen.
Diagrammatic Representations
A list of possible pictures, graphs or other visual tools that can be useful when this model is used.
Relevant Examples
A list of solved example problems that make use of this model.