Differential equation for the simple pendulum

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SUMMARY

The differential equation for the simple pendulum is correctly represented as ##\ddot \theta + \sin(\theta) = 0##. A common misconception arises from misapplying the energy conservation equation, leading to incorrect formulations such as ##\frac{d}{dt} (\frac{\dot\theta^2}{2}-cos(\theta)) = 0##. This error stems from neglecting the chain rule of differentiation. To solve the equation, it is essential to separate variables and integrate appropriately.

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  • Understanding of differential equations
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  • Knowledge of energy conservation principles in physics
  • Proficiency in calculus, particularly integration techniques
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  • Study the derivation of the simple pendulum differential equation
  • Learn about energy conservation in mechanical systems
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Celso
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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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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.
 
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