Conceptual question on simple harmonic motion

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SUMMARY

In the discussion on simple harmonic motion, it is established that the period of a swing does not depend on the mass of the person swinging. Both Jim and Gina, despite their weight difference, take the same time to complete a swing. When Jim stands on the seat of his swing, the period remains unchanged because the period formula T=2π(L/g)^(1/2) indicates that only the length of the swing and gravitational acceleration affect the period. The length L refers to the distance from the pivot point to the center of mass of the swinging object.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of simple harmonic motion principles
  • Familiarity with the formula for the period of a pendulum, T=2π(L/g)^(1/2)
  • Basic knowledge of gravitational acceleration (g)
  • Concept of center of mass in physics
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the effects of changing the length of a pendulum on its period
  • Explore the concept of center of mass and its relevance in oscillatory motion
  • Study variations in simple harmonic motion with different pivot points
  • Investigate the impact of external forces on the period of oscillation
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Students studying physics, educators teaching mechanics, and anyone interested in the principles of oscillatory motion and pendulum dynamics.

xregina12
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1. a. Jim and Gina are swinging on adjacent swings of equal length. Jim weighs about twice as much as Gina. Who takes less time to swing back and force.
I got this answer, which is that they take the same time since mass doesn't affect the period in simple harmonic motion. However, I don't get part b below.

b. What, if anything, will change if Jim swings while standing on the seat of his swing?
I. Jim's period will decrease.
II. Gina's period will decrease.
III. No change in the period.

I put no change, however, the answer is wrong, does anyone know why?
 
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What things does the period depend on? Think about whether standing vs. sitting in the swing will change any of those things.
 
Well I know the equation for period is T=2pi(L/g)^(1/2) however, 2pi and the length are constants, and g, acceleration due to gravity, I believe won't really remotely change to any notable degree so I don't see why the period changes.
 
What distance does the length L actually refer to?
 

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