Simple Pendulum: Oscillating Mass Explained

In summary, a simple pendulum consists of a point-mass tied to a massless string of length L. If a baseball bat is suspended from one end and allowed to swing back and forth, it will not act as a simple pendulum, but rather a physical pendulum. The conditions for an oscillating mass tied to a string to constitute a simple pendulum are when the mass is a point-mass and the string is massless. The period of a physical pendulum can also be calculated using the formula T = 2 \pi \sqrt{\frac{l}{g}} .
  • #1
dg_5021
80
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simple pendulm

If I suspend a baseball bat from one end and let it swing back and forth does it make a simple pendulm?
 
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  • #2
Under what conditions does an oscillating mass tied to a string constitute a simple pendulum?
 
  • #3
Please show us that you have but some thought of your own into these questions.
 
  • #4
I know that a simple pendulum consists of a mass m tied to a string (considered massless) of length L. So If I suspend a baseball bat from one end and let it swing back and forth does it make a simple pendulm
 
  • #5
No, it will make a physical pendulum.
 
  • #6
Under what conditions does an oscillating mass tied to a string constitute a simple pendulum?
 
  • #7
When it's point-mass ([itex] I_{cm} = mr^2 [/itex]) tied to the massless string.

Try it:

Physical pendulum Period

[tex] T = 2 \pi \sqrt{\frac{I}{mgd}} [/tex]

Substituting for ([itex] I_{cm} = mr^2 [/itex])

[tex] T = 2 \pi \sqrt{\frac{mr^2}{mgd}} [/tex]

[itex] d = l = r [/itex]

[tex] T = 2 \pi \sqrt{\frac{l}{g}} [/tex]
 

1. What is a simple pendulum?

A simple pendulum is a basic mechanical system that consists of a mass (known as the bob), suspended by a string or rod from a fixed point. When released, the pendulum swings back and forth in a regular motion.

2. How does a simple pendulum work?

The motion of a simple pendulum is governed by the laws of motion and gravity. When the pendulum is released, it moves due to the force of gravity, causing it to swing back and forth in a regular pattern. The pendulum's motion is known as simple harmonic motion.

3. What factors affect the motion of a simple pendulum?

The motion of a simple pendulum is affected by three main factors: the length of the string or rod, the mass of the bob, and the amplitude (angle) of the swing. These factors can affect the period (time for one complete swing), frequency (number of swings per unit time), and the speed of the pendulum.

4. What is the equation for the period of a simple pendulum?

The period of a simple pendulum can be calculated using the equation T = 2π√(L/g), where T is the period, L is the length of the string or rod, and g is the acceleration due to gravity. This equation is based on the principles of simple harmonic motion.

5. How is a simple pendulum used in scientific experiments?

Simple pendulums are commonly used in physics experiments to demonstrate the principles of motion and energy. They can also be used to measure the value of gravity and to study the effects of factors such as length and mass on the motion of a pendulum. In addition, simple pendulums are used in timekeeping devices, such as grandfather clocks and metronomes.

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