Differential equation for the simple pendulum

In summary, the conversation discusses the difficulties the speaker is facing in solving a differential equation involving theta and time dependence. They mention using Wolfram Alpha and finding a potential solution on Cheeg, but realizing it is incorrect due to a missing chain rule in the differentiation. The speaker recommends starting with the energy conservation equation and separating variables to successfully solve the equation.
  • #1
Celso
33
1
Homework Statement
A simple pendulum whose length is ##l = 9.8m## satisfies the equation ##\dddot\theta + sin(\theta) = 0##
If ##\Theta_{0}## is the amplitude of oscillation, show that its period ##T## is given by
##T = 4 \int_{0}^{\frac{\pi}{2}} \frac{d\phi}{(1-\alpha sin(\phi)^2)^{1/2}}## where ##\alpha = sin(\frac{1}{2}\Theta)^2##
Relevant Equations
##T = \frac{2\pi}{\omega}##
How do I start this? I plugged the differential equation at wolfram alpha and it semmed too complicated for such an exercise. I've also looked at a sample of an answer on cheeg where the initial approach is to rewrite the equation as ##\frac{d}{dt} (\frac{\dot\theta^2}{2}-cos(\theta)) = 0##
How is this right if the ##\theta## time dependence is not given?
 
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  • #2
It would help if you had the correct equation, ##\ddot \theta+\sin(\theta)=0##. Note that what you found in cheeg is incorrect, ##\frac{d}{dt} (\frac{\dot\theta^2}{2}-cos(\theta)) =\ddot \theta+\dot \theta \sin(\theta)## which is not the same as above. Whoever posted this on cheeg forgot the chain rule of differentiation.

I would recommend that you start with the energy conservation equation, separate variables (##\theta## on one side and ##t## on the other) and then integrate.
 

1. What is a simple pendulum?

A simple pendulum is a weight suspended from a fixed point by a string or rod, which swings back and forth under the force of gravity.

2. What is the differential equation for a simple pendulum?

The differential equation for a simple pendulum is d2θ/dt2 + (g/L)sin(θ) = 0, where θ is the angle of displacement, t is time, g is the acceleration due to gravity, and L is the length of the pendulum's string or rod.

3. How is the differential equation derived?

The differential equation for a simple pendulum can be derived using Newton's second law of motion, which states that the sum of forces acting on an object is equal to its mass times its acceleration. By considering the forces acting on a pendulum, such as gravity and tension in the string, the equation can be derived.

4. What does the differential equation tell us about a simple pendulum?

The differential equation provides a mathematical model for the motion of a simple pendulum. It describes the relationship between the angle of displacement and the forces acting on the pendulum, allowing us to predict its behavior over time.

5. Are there any simplifications made in the differential equation for a simple pendulum?

Yes, the differential equation for a simple pendulum assumes that the mass of the pendulum is concentrated at a single point and that there is no air resistance. It also assumes small angles of displacement, known as the small-angle approximation, which makes the equation more manageable to solve.

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