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Answer 3

This experiment uses a simple pendulum to determine the acceleration due to gravity (g). A pendulum consists of a bob attached to a string or rod. The period of oscillation (T) depends on the length of the pendulum (L) and g. Measurements of L and repeated measurements of T are used to calculate g using the formula g = (4π2L) / T2. Sources of error like air resistance and measurement errors are addressed. The experiment provides an accurate method to determine the value of g.

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43 views3 pages

Answer 3

This experiment uses a simple pendulum to determine the acceleration due to gravity (g). A pendulum consists of a bob attached to a string or rod. The period of oscillation (T) depends on the length of the pendulum (L) and g. Measurements of L and repeated measurements of T are used to calculate g using the formula g = (4π2L) / T2. Sources of error like air resistance and measurement errors are addressed. The experiment provides an accurate method to determine the value of g.

Uploaded by

Shubham imts
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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ANS 3- Experiment: Investigating the Behavior of a Simple Pendulum and Determining the

Acceleration Due to Gravity

Objective:

The objective of this experiment is to study the behavior of a simple pendulum and use appropriate
measurements to determine the acceleration due to gravity (g).

Theory:

A simple pendulum consists of a mass (called the bob) attached to a string or rod of fixed length
(called the pendulum arm). When the pendulum is displaced from its equilibrium position and
released, it oscillates back and forth in a regular and periodic manner.

The period of oscillation (T) of a simple pendulum depends on the length of the pendulum arm (L)
and the acceleration due to gravity (g) according to the formula:

[T = 2π√(L/g)]

From this formula, we can rearrange to solve for g:

[g = (4π²L) / T²]

Apparatus and Materials:

1. A simple pendulum setup with a string or rod and a mass (bob).

2. A stopwatch or timer.

3. A ruler or measuring tape.

4. A protractor.

5. A support stand and clamp to suspend the pendulum.

Procedure:

1. Setup:

- Assemble the simple pendulum by suspending the bob from a string or rod.

- Ensure that the pendulum arm length (L) is accurately measured and recorded.

- Set up the support stand and clamp to hold the pendulum securely.
2. Measurement of Pendulum Arm Length:

- Measure and record the length of the pendulum arm (L) from the pivot point to the center of
mass of the bob using a ruler or measuring tape.

3. Measurement of Period (T):

- Displace the pendulum bob slightly from its equilibrium position, allowing it to swing freely.

- Start the stopwatch or timer as soon as the pendulum is released.

- Measure the time it takes for the pendulum to complete one full oscillation (from one extreme
position to the other and back to the starting position). This is the period (T) of the pendulum.

- Record the value of T.

4. Repeat Measurements:

- Repeat the measurement of T several times to obtain a reliable average value.

5. Calculation of Acceleration Due to Gravity (g):

- Calculate the acceleration due to gravity (g) using the formula:

\[g = (4π²L) / T²\]

Data Analysis:

1. Calculate the average value of T from the repeated measurements.

2. Substitute the average T and the known value of L into the formula to calculate the acceleration
due to gravity (g).

3. Record the calculated value of g.

Sources of Error:

1. Air Resistance: Air resistance can affect the motion of the pendulum and lead to inaccurate results.
Minimize this error by using a small bob and conducting the experiment in a low-turbulence
environment.

2. Friction at Pivot Point: Friction at the pivot point can dampen the pendulum's motion. Ensure that
the pivot point is well-lubricated and friction-free.

3. Length Measurement Error: Inaccurate measurement of the pendulum arm length (L) can lead to
errors in the calculated value of g. Use a precise measuring tool and take multiple measurements to
minimize this error.
4. Reaction Time: The accuracy of timing measurements using a stopwatch or timer depends on the
experimenter's reaction time. Use a digital timer with millisecond accuracy to minimize this error.

Ways to Minimize Errors:

1. Use a small bob to reduce air resistance effects.

2. Ensure the pivot point is well-lubricated to minimize friction.

3. Use a precise measuring tool and take multiple measurements of the pendulum arm length (L).

4. Use a digital timer with millisecond accuracy for timing measurements.

5. Conduct the experiment in a controlled environment with minimal air turbulence.

Applications:

1. Determining the value of the acceleration due to gravity (g) is essential in physics and engineering
applications.

2. Simple pendulum experiments are used in educational settings to teach concepts of periodic
motion and oscillations.

3. Pendulum clocks, once widely used for timekeeping, are based on the principles of simple
pendulum motion.

Conclusion:

The experiment involving a simple pendulum provides a straightforward method to determine the
acceleration due to gravity (g) accurately. By carefully measuring the pendulum arm length (L) and
the period of oscillation (T) while minimizing sources of error, the experiment allows students and
researchers to calculate g with confidence, providing a valuable insight into the behavior of periodic
motion and gravity.

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