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Physics mnemonic aids? Let's make a list...

Posted: Mon Oct 13, 2008 2:07 pm
by PoincareSection
What sort of stupid mnemonic aids do you use to memorize equations and concepts?

like

torque = r x f like tarrif

or

Q = CV like curriculum vitae

Re: Physics mnemonic aids? Let's make a list...

Posted: Thu Oct 16, 2008 8:47 pm
by mhazelm
Check out the article!

http://www.iop.org/EJ/article/0031-9120 ... 86a9f3c9d4

I have the weirdest mnemonic methods. I don't really think I can even explain them in a way to make sense. I use the fact that g comes before p in the alphabet to remember that it is the derivative of the phase velocity (yes, I know that doesn't really make sense to anyone besides me). Alphabetic relations work well for me.

I think it's fun to make up random songs, too - if you can make equations rhyme in a tune you know, you can remember it fairly well. In grade school my teacher taught us the quadratic equation to the tune of "pop goes the weasel" and I STILL remember the tune (obviously I don't need it anymore, but it sure worked back in the day!).