Winter 2015/16
Singularities of Geometrical Models in Physics and Mathematics
Conceptual Design
- Each participant adopts one or several objects of the Göttingen Collection of Mathematical Models and Instruments that shows a singularity, or resolves to construct a new model.
- The students learns about the mathematical background of the singularity in his or her model, and how it relates to an application in physics.
- Appropriate models are build for the presentation of the topic in the seminar — either by generating replicas of a model of the collection by scanning and 3D printing, or by building the new model.
- The presentations are given for a mixed audience of Masters students specializing in Mathematics Didactics and in the Physics of Complex Systems.
- In class we reflect on the role of the singularities in the physical models, and on their absence in the real world. This fosters awareness on the dichotomy between idealized mathematical concepts and their real-world applications.
Example 1: Learning Steps for a Model for Vibrating Strings
1. Select a model
2. Perform a 3D scan
3. Put fingers on the model
Example 2: Explore Fractal Patterns seen in 4 Reflecting Spheres
1. Collect the pieces
2. Build the experiment
