Dynamical analysis of mass–spring models using Lie algebraic methods

Abstract The dynamical analysis of vibrational systems of masses interconnected by restitution elements each with a single degree of freedom, and different configurations between masses and spring constants, is presented. Finite circular and linear arrays are studied using classical arguments, and their proper solution is given using methods often found in quantum optical systems. We further study some more complicated arrays where the solutions are given by using Lie algebras.