The bouncing ball and the Grünwald-Letnikov definition of fractional derivative

Abstract

Abstract This paper proposes a conceptual experiment embedding the model of a bouncing ball and the Grünwald-Letnikov (GL) formulation for derivative of fractional order. The impacts of the ball with the surface are modeled by means of a restitution coefficient related to the coefficients of the GL fractional derivative. The results are straightforward to interpret under the light of the classical physics. The mechanical experiment leads to a physical perspective and allows a straightforward visualization. This strategy provides not only a motivational introduction to students of the fractional calculus, but also triggers possible discussion with regard to the use of fractional models in mechanics.