Physics Lab Experiment: TITLE: Simple Pendulum
Physics Lab Experiment: TITLE: Simple Pendulum
Physics Lab Experiment: TITLE: Simple Pendulum
In a simple pendulum with no friction, mechanical energy is conserved. Total, mechanical energy is a
combination of kinetic energy and gravitational potential energy. As the pendulum swings back and forth, there is
a constant exchange between kinetic energy and gravitational potential energy.
OBJECTIVE
Demonstrates the motion of pendulums
Determines which variables will affect the period of a pendulum.
Comprehends the importance of testing one variable at a time to solve a problem.
II. MATERIALS
Spring C-clamp.
Ring-stand clamps. Meter stick.
Set of known masses. Protractor.
1.2 m long cord ruler or meter stick
pendulum clamp.
III. PROCEDURE.
Data Table 2
Time for 10 swings (s)
Mass of pendulum (kg) Trial 1 Trial 2 Trial 3
Analysis
1) Clculate the average time for 10 swings and the time for 1 swing (the period) for each trial in
Parts A and B and enter in table 3 and 4, respectively.
2) Using data from Table 3, plot the period of the pendulum versus the pendulum’s length.
3) Using data from Table 4, plot the period of the pendulum versus the pendulum’s mass.
Table 3
Period
Length of pendulum (m) Average time for 10 swings (s) (s)
Table 4
Mass of Pendulum (m) Average time for 10 swings (s) Period (s)
Questions:
1) Cite any assuptions made in performing this experiment regrding the properties of a simple
pendulum.
2) Describe the shape of the T vs L graph.
3) How do you think your results would change (if at all) if you performed this experimento on moon?
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