Find Damping Constant of Pendulum: Formula & Tips

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SUMMARY

The damping constant of a pendulum can be determined by incorporating a retarding force that is proportional to the angular velocity into the equations of motion. To derive the equation of motion for a pendulum, one must utilize linear differential equations, considering both linear and quadratic drag effects. Understanding projectile motion with air resistance is essential for grasping the complexities of damping in pendulums. The discussion emphasizes the importance of foundational knowledge in physics to effectively approach this topic.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of linear differential equations
  • Knowledge of pendulum dynamics, including period calculation
  • Familiarity with concepts of linear and quadratic drag
  • Basic principles of projectile motion involving air resistance
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of the equations of motion for a damped pendulum
  • Learn about linear and quadratic drag forces in physics
  • Explore the effects of air resistance on projectile motion
  • Review resources on differential equations in classical mechanics
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, educators teaching mechanics, and anyone interested in understanding the dynamics of damped systems, particularly in pendulum motion.

NINHARDCOREFAN
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How do I find the damping constant of a pendulum? Is there a formula?
 
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I'd assume that you start with the equations of motion for an undamped pendulum, and then add in a retarding force that increases with angular velocity. Are you familiar with how to derive the equation of motion of a pendulum from the length and the mass?
 
No, all I know is how to find its period.
 
you need to work with linear differiential equations. you can have linear drag or quadratic drag (then it will be nonlinear). i suggest you learn some projectiles motions involving air resistance first if all you know is the formula for the period...
 
Can someone please give me the equation with length and mass? I'll try to derive it.
 
Last edited:
NINHARDCOREFAN said:
Can someone please give me the equation with length and mass? I'll try to derive it.
We don't give out answers here in the PF. We guide:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pendulum
 

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