Oscillation of membranes using computer algebra

This paper presents a computer algebra application to the analysis of the m embrane problem. Through animated displays, we present the movement of the axially symmetric normal modes of a circular membrane attached along its bo undary, as well as the evolution due to initial conditions. The examples pr esented can be used as an in-class application of computer algebra systems in undergraduate courses like Mathematical Methods. (C) 1999 American Assoc iation of Physics Teachers.