How can I graph the pendulum function without knowing the constants?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on graphing the pendulum function described by the equation \(\theta(t) = \theta_0 \sin(\omega_0 t + \phi)\), where \(\omega_0 = \sqrt{\frac{g}{r}}\) and \(\phi = \sin^{-1} \left(\frac{\theta_1}{\theta_0}\right)\). The user seeks guidance on sketching \(\theta(t)\) versus \(t\) for specific values of \(\phi\) without knowing the constants \(\theta_0\) and \(r\). Participants confirm that the graph resembles a stretched sinusoidal wave and emphasize the importance of determining the amplitude and zeros for accurate sketching.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of pendulum motion and its mathematical representation
  • Familiarity with trigonometric functions and sinusoidal graphs
  • Basic knowledge of constants in physics, specifically in pendulum dynamics
  • Ability to interpret and manipulate mathematical equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the properties of sinusoidal functions in graphing
  • Learn about the effects of amplitude and phase shift on waveforms
  • Study the derivation and implications of the pendulum equation in classical mechanics
  • Explore graphing tools or software for visualizing trigonometric functions
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, educators teaching pendulum dynamics, and anyone interested in graphing trigonometric functions without specific constant values.

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Hello,

Ive done the first part of a question which was to derive the equation

[tex]\displaystyle{\theta(t) = \theta_0 \sin(\omega_0t + \phi)}[/tex]

for a pendulum

where [tex]\displaystyle{\omega_0 = \sqrt{\frac{g}{r}}}[/tex] and [tex]\displaystyle{\phi = \sin^{-1} \left(\frac{\theta_1}{\theta_0}\right)}[/tex]

[tex]r = \mbox{length of rod (pendulum)}[/tex]

The next part says

Sketch [tex]\theta(t)[/tex] versus [tex]t[/tex] for the cases [tex]\phi = 0[/tex] and [tex]\displastyle{\phi = \frac{\pi}{2}}[/tex]

How do I do this if i don't know [tex]\theta_0[/tex] or [tex]r[/tex]? I know they are both constant though, does this have a bearing on the situation?

Thankyou
 
Last edited:
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1.There's a typo in the first formula.A "t" is missing in the (round) bracket...

2.The graph is basically a streched (on "y") sinusoid...So it ain't a big deal to draw it.You have to determine the amplitude,the zeros and that's it...

Daniel.
 
thankyou...

Ok, so I am just basically sketching it and trying to make it look nice

I think i can do that :smile:

Thanks again
 

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