In: Physics
Masses coupled through springs is a model for the behavior of atoms in a crystal. Consider a one-dimensional crystal, what if we have a crystal made of two kinds of atoms with different masses? Consider a one-dimensional lattice made up of alternating large and small masses, M and m, respectively. Assume periodic boundary conditions. (a) Calculate the normal modes of this lattice (you should find two normal modes). (b) Describe the relative motion of the two types of masses for each mode.