Issue |
Math. Model. Nat. Phenom.
Volume 6, Number 6, 2011
Biomathematics Education
|
|
---|---|---|
Page(s) | 278 - 294 | |
Section | Continuous Modeling | |
DOI | https://doi.org/10.1051/mmnp/20116615 | |
Published online | 05 October 2011 |
Using normal mode analysis in teaching mathematical modeling to biology students
University of Chicago, BSCD, 924 E 57th St, Chicago, IL
60637,
USA
1
E-mail: dkon@uchicago.edu
Linear oscillators are used for modeling a diverse array of natural systems, for instance acoustics, materials science, and chemical spectroscopy. In this paper I describe simple models of structural interactions in biological molecules, known as elastic network models, as a useful topic for undergraduate biology instruction in mathematical modeling. These models use coupled linear oscillators to model the fluctuations of molecular structures around the equilibrium state. I present many learning activities associated with building and understanding these models, ranging from analytical to computational. I provide a number of web resources where students can obtain structural data, perform calculations, and suggest research directions for independent projects.
Mathematics Subject Classification: 92B01
Key words: mathematical modeling / elastic network models / normal mode analysis / curriculum development
© EDP Sciences, 2011
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