I'm currently studying simple harmonic motion and trying to understand the general solution to the differential equation: d²x/dt² = -ω²x The solution is: x(t) = ±A·cos(ωt) This ± sign has led to a conceptual doubt. Mathematically, squaring and taking the square root introduces both positive and negative branches, but physically we only see one path for the oscillator. I want to graphically or interactively explore what it means to include both +cos(ωt) and -cos(ωt) as solutions. Specifically, I want to: Visualize both branches (positive and negative cosine solutions). Animate the point moving on both curves (if that makes sense). Optionally: show how taking ± when integrating square root can lead to bifurcated paths, but we choose one physically. Here what I’ve already tried in Python using matplotlib (and it works for static plot): But now I want to go beyond static plots: Can this be animated? (in Python, JavaScript, or even Manim?) How can I visually show that the ± sign is mathematical, but we choose one path physically based on initial conditions (e.g., x(0) = A)? What tool (e.g., Desmos, Python animation, p5.js, Manim) would you recommend? Also apologise if this is not the correct site to ask it Continue reading...