Investigating Factors Hich Affect The Period Time

Of A Simple Pendulum Essay, Research Paper

Investigating factors which affect the period time of a simple

pendulum Planning Definitions: Oscillation : Repeated motion of pendulum (to and for)

Period (T) : Time taken for one full oscillation In this investigation, I am going to experimentally determine a factor which

will affect the period of a simple pendulum and the mathematical relationship

of this factor. This type of pendulum will consist of a mass hanging on a length

of string. Factors which affect the period (T) of a pendulum:

-Length (L) of pendulum

-Angle of amplitude

-Gravitational field strength (g)

-Mass of bob I predict that the period will be affected by the length of the pendulum. An

increase in length will produce an increase in time. I based by prediction on

the scientific theory I found in a physics text book: The pendulum is able to work when the bob is raised to an angle larger than

the point at which it is vertically suspended at rest. By raising the bob, the

pendulum gains Gravitation Potential Energy or GPE, as in being raised, it is

held above this point of natural suspension and so therefore is acting against

the natural gravitational force. Once the bob is released, this gravitational

force is able to act on it, thus moving it downwards towards its original

hanging point. We can say therefore, that as it is released, the GPE is

converted into Kinetic Energy (KE) needed for the pendulum to swing. Once

the bob returns to its original point of suspension, the GPE has been totally

converted into KE, causing the bob to continue moving past its pivot point and

up to a height equidistant from its pivot as its starting point. The same factors affect the pendulum on its reverse swing. GPE gained after

reaching its highest point in its swing, is converted into KE needed for it to

return back to its natural point of vertical suspension. Due to this continuous

motion, the bob creates an arc shaped swing. The movement of the pendulum

is repeated until an external force acts on it, causing it to cease in movement.

The pendulum never looses any energy, it is simply converted from one form

to another and back again.

I am therefore going to experimentally determine the relationship between the

length of the pendulum and the period.

In the scientific theory, I found a formula relating the length of the pendulum

to the period. It stated that: P = 2 L

g P = The period

g = Gravitational Field Strength

L = Length of string This formula shows that L is the only variable that when altered will affect the

value of P, as all the other values are constants. The formula:P = 2 L

g can be rearranged to produce the formula: P = 4L

g and therefore:P = 4

L g As 4 and g are both constants, this means that P must be directly

proportional to L. I can now say that the length of the pendulum does have an affect on the

period, and as the length of the pendulum increases, the length of the period

will also increase.

I will draw a graph of P against L. As they are directly proportional to each

other, the predicted graph should show a straight line through the origin:Method

-I will firstly set up a clamp stand with a piece of string 50cm long

attached to it.

-A mass of 50g will be attached securely to the end of the string

-The mass will be held to one side at an angle of 45 degrees (measured

with a protractor), and then released.

-A stop clock will be used to time taken for one full oscillation

-This will be repeated a number of times, each time shortening the

length of string by 10cm

-The length of the pendulum will be plotted against the period on a

graph. NB. The final length of string and mass will be decided after my preliminary

investigation. Apparatus:

-Meter ruler

-Protractor

-Clamp stand

-G-clamp

-Stop clock

-String

-Mass Diagram: The following factors will be considered when providing a fair test:

-The mass will be a constant of 50g throughout the experiment

-Angle of amplitude shall be a constant of 45 degrees. This will ensure

that there is no variation of the forces acting on the pendulum.

-The value of gravitational field strength will inevitably remain constant,

helping me to provide a fair test.

-The intervals between the string lengths will increase by 10cm each

time. This will help me to identify a clear pattern in my results.

-If any anomalous results are identified, readings will be repeated. This

will ensure that all readings are sufficiently accurate.

-To ensure that the velocity is not affected, I will ensure that there are no

obstructions to the swing of the pendulum. The following factors will be considered when providing a safe test:

-Care will be taken not to let the bob come into contact with anything

whilst swinging the pendulum, as the weight i

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