g=4π2LT2g equals the fraction with numerator 4 pi squared cap L and denominator cap T squared end-fraction 4. Sample Calculations How To Solve Simple Pendulum Problems
The period ( ) of a simple pendulum is determined by the length of the string ( ) and the acceleration due to gravity (
T=2πLgcap T equals 2 pi the square root of the fraction with numerator cap L and denominator g end-fraction end-root : Period (the time for one full swing back and forth). pendulum lab worksheet answers
4π2gthe fraction with numerator 4 pi squared and denominator g end-fraction : Rearranging the formula to find gravity:
: To reduce human error, it is standard to measure the time for 10 or 20 oscillations and then divide by that number to find the time for one single period. g=4π2LT2g equals the fraction with numerator 4 pi
: Length of the pendulum (measured from the pivot to the center of the mass). : Acceleration due to gravity (approximately on Earth). 2. Common Variables & Relationships
: Does not affect the period. If you double the mass, the period stays the same. Amplitude (Angle) : For small angles (usually less than 15∘15 raised to the composed with power ), the angle does not significantly affect the period. : Length of the pendulum (measured from the
: Increasing the length increases the period. Specifically, if you quadruple the length, you double the period. 3. Step-by-Step Data Analysis Most labs require you to solve for or predict a specific length.