High-Speed Video Analysis of Subharmonic Oscillations for Physics Education

This paper presents a comparative study of two powerful tools, Tracker and Python, in analyzing high-speed camera footage for exploring subharmonic oscillations in physics education. By utilizing high-speed video capture, we delve into the nuanced study of these oscillations, capturing intricate details at frame rates unattainable by standard video. Our study emphasizes the comparative effectiveness of Tracker, an open-source video analysis and modeling tool, and Python, a versatile programming language with extensive libraries for data analysis and visualization, in extracting and interpreting the physical parameters of subharmonic oscillations.We explore the capabilities of each tool in processing high-speed footage, focusing on their strengths in enhancing students’ understanding of complex oscillatory behaviors, and evaluate the ease of use, accuracy of data extraction, and the depth of analysis provided by Tracker and Python. By presenting a side-by-side analysis, we aim to guide educators in selecting the appropriate tool for their pedagogical needs, enhancing the learning experience in physics classrooms. The comparative analysis not only illuminates the potential of integrating advanced technologies in education but also serves as a guide for educators to harness these tools effectively in physics education.