LaPlace's Equation Model

What is this model?

This model illustrates and animates the movement of an oscillating surface, such as a drumhead being struck, using the LaPlace Relaxation Method. The center four cells are the source of the oscillation, and as they vibrate up and down, the surrounding cells dampen the effect. A 3-D animation with clear axes labels shows the movement of the cells. The user can speed up or slow down the animation as it runs to better visualize the movement.

What can this Model be used to teach?

Understand the function of the LaPlace Relaxation Method in the animation

Consider the role of ideal models in determining behavior in less ideal circumstances

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Basic Diffusion (AgentSheets)