Accelerating Pendulum

In summary, an accelerating pendulum is a pendulum that is subject to a force that causes it to accelerate. It works by converting potential energy into kinetic energy and can be affected by factors such as length, release angle, and gravity. The acceleration can be increased by increasing force or reducing external factors. Practical applications include timekeeping devices, scientific experiments, and engineering design and testing.
  • #1
cupid.callin
1,132
1

Homework Statement


attachment.php?attachmentid=33446&stc=1&d=1300915884.jpg



The Attempt at a Solution



Here my figure showing forces:

attachment.php?attachmentid=33447&stc=1&d=1300915884.png


SO here,

Tcosθ = mg
Tsinθ = mao

so tanθ =ao/g = 1/√3

so θ = 30o, right?

but it answer says its 60o
 

Attachments

  • Untitled 2.jpg
    Untitled 2.jpg
    19.9 KB · Views: 385
  • Untitled.png
    Untitled.png
    22.6 KB · Views: 430
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
books wrong... i also got the same asnwer
 
  • #3
that can't be
book hasn't been wrong ever till now (and i have done like 80% of it)
 
  • #4
Does everyone think that answer is 30 ?
 
  • #5




There may be a misunderstanding in the calculation of the angle θ. When looking at the forces acting on the pendulum, it is important to consider the horizontal and vertical components separately. The equation Tsinθ = mao is correct, but for the vertical component, not the horizontal. The correct equation for the horizontal component is Tcosθ = ma, where a is the acceleration of the pendulum in that direction. In this case, a = 0 since the pendulum is not accelerating horizontally. Therefore, Tcosθ = 0 and cosθ = 0, which means that θ = 90°, not 30° or 60°. This is because the force of tension, T, is acting directly upwards, perpendicular to the surface of the Earth.

I would suggest reviewing the equations used and their corresponding components to ensure a better understanding of the forces at play in this scenario. It is also important to remember that the angle θ represents the angle between the tension force and the vertical direction, not the horizontal direction.
 

What is an accelerating pendulum?

An accelerating pendulum is a pendulum that is subject to a force that causes it to accelerate, rather than just swinging back and forth at a constant speed. This acceleration can be caused by a variety of factors, such as gravity, air resistance, or external forces.

How does an accelerating pendulum work?

An accelerating pendulum works by converting potential energy into kinetic energy. As the pendulum is released and begins to swing, its potential energy is converted into kinetic energy, causing it to accelerate. This acceleration continues until the pendulum reaches the bottom of its swing, at which point it begins to slow down and convert its kinetic energy back into potential energy.

What factors affect the acceleration of a pendulum?

The acceleration of a pendulum can be affected by several factors, including the length of the pendulum, the angle at which it is released, and the force of gravity. Other external factors, such as air resistance or friction, can also impact the acceleration of a pendulum.

How can the acceleration of a pendulum be increased?

The acceleration of a pendulum can be increased by increasing the force acting on it, such as by increasing the angle at which it is released or increasing the length of the pendulum. Reducing external factors, such as air resistance, can also help to increase the acceleration of a pendulum.

What are some practical applications of an accelerating pendulum?

An accelerating pendulum has several practical applications, such as in timekeeping devices like grandfather clocks or metronomes. It is also used in scientific experiments to demonstrate concepts related to energy, motion, and gravity. Additionally, the concept of an accelerating pendulum is used in engineering to design and test structures that can withstand external forces and acceleration.

Similar threads

  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
20
Views
973
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
9
Views
636
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
26
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
3K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
7
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
3K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
21
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
886
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
12
Views
4K
Back
Top