Find g (gravity) on a compound pendulum

In summary, the conversation discusses the use of a compound pendulum, where two parallel axes O and O' are used for small amplitude vibrations. The distances h and h' from O and O' to the center of mass are measured, as well as the periods of vibrations \tau and \tau'. By setting O and O' as centers of oscillation relative to each other, the formula \tau=\tau' is obtained. The formula for g in terms of measured quantities is then derived, as well as a correction to account for \delta. The conversation also mentions a picture of the work and equations used, and a question about the accuracy of the solution.
  • #1
GTdan
39
0
1. A compound pendulum is arranged to swing about either of two parallel axes through two points O, O' located on a line through the center of mass. The distances h, h' from O, O' to the center of mass, and the periods [tex]\tau[/tex], [tex]\tau'[/tex]of small amplitude vibrations about the axes through O and O' are measured. O and O' are arranged so that each is approximately he center of oscillation relative to the other. GIven [tex]\tau=\tau'[/tex], find a formula for g in terms of measured quantities. Given that [tex]\tau'=\tau(1+\delta)[/tex], where [tex]\delta\ll1[/tex], find a correction to be added to your previous formula so that it will be correct to terms of order [tex]\delta[/tex]
2. [tex]\omega=\frac{2\pi}{\tau}=\sqrt{\frac{g}{l}}[/tex]

[tex]l=\frac{k_{o}^2}{h}[/tex]

[tex]l=h+h'[/tex]

[tex]hh'=k_{o}^2-h^2=k_{G}^2 [/tex]

[tex]k_{o}^2=k_{G}^2+h^2[/tex]

Where k is the center of oscillation at O, O', or the center of mass G (depending on the subscript).

3.

I am pasting and attaching a picture of my work because it's going to take a long time to type all that work down in Latex. I find g just fine when the period of oscillation is the same for when it's suspended at either point but when they are not equal (part b). The book's answer in the back is this:

[tex]g=[\frac{4\pi^2(h+h')}{\tau^2}][\frac{1+2h'\delta}{h-h'}[/tex]

As you can see, the last parts are guesses. I'm off by a strange factor somewhere and I don't know how. Help?


http://home.comcast.net/~dannyrod/1.13.jpg
http://home.comcast.net/~dannyrod/1.13b.jpg
 
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  • #2
You make reference to equation numbers in your solution. Could you please tell us what book you're using?
 

1. What is a compound pendulum?

A compound pendulum is a type of pendulum that consists of a rigid body suspended from a fixed point, allowing it to swing freely back and forth.

2. How do you find the value of g on a compound pendulum?

To find the value of g on a compound pendulum, you will need to measure the period of the pendulum's swing and its length. Then, you can use the formula g = (4π²L) / T², where g is the acceleration due to gravity, L is the length of the pendulum, and T is the period of the swing.

3. What factors can affect the value of g on a compound pendulum?

The value of g on a compound pendulum can be affected by various factors such as air resistance, the material and shape of the pendulum, and the accuracy of the measurements taken.

4. Can the value of g be different on different compound pendulums?

Yes, the value of g can vary slightly on different compound pendulums due to the factors mentioned above. However, it should be relatively consistent as long as the measurements and conditions are similar.

5. Why is it important to find the value of g on a compound pendulum?

Finding the value of g on a compound pendulum can help validate the principles of physics and confirm the accuracy of the measurements and calculations. It can also be used to determine the local acceleration due to gravity in a specific location.

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