Finding ω and T of a Pendulum With No Numbers

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves determining the angular velocity (ω) and period (T) of a pendulum characterized by its length (L) and mass (m). The context is set with a diagram illustrating various components of the pendulum, including angle (θ) and arc length (s).

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the meanings of the variable symbols and express uncertainty about the definitions of T and ω. There are attempts to derive expressions for tension and concerns about the adequacy of the problem's setup without numerical values.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring the definitions of variables and questioning the instructor's intent behind the problem. Some guidance has been offered regarding the interpretation of tension and the importance of free body diagrams in analyzing the pendulum.

Contextual Notes

There is a noted concern about the lack of numerical values, which some participants feel is necessary for understanding the problem fully. Additionally, there is uncertainty about whether the problem is intended to assess conceptual understanding or requires specific calculations.

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Homework Statement



All this problem says is to find ω and T of a pendulum with a length L and mass m.
There's a picture of a pendulum labeling the arc length, length, mass, and angle θ with just symbols.

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



I tried solving algebraically to find T using ƩFy=T-mg=0. I don't know if I made any real progress; I'm not very good at these kinds of problems. I need numbers to really understand these kinds of problems. I'm almost concerned that the correct answer might be a number.
 
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Do you know what the variable symbols mean? What is T for instance?
 
T is tension. ω is angular velocity. It uses θ for the angle, s for arc length, L for length of the rope/string of the pendulum, and m for mass.
 
There's a possibility I'm over-thinking it. My instructor likes to go all-out with some questions, but this might just be him checking out understanding. I'm not sure.
 
NilliNilli said:
T is tension. ω is angular velocity. It uses θ for the angle, s for arc length, L for length of the rope/string of the pendulum, and m for mass.
Drawing the free body diagram for the pendulum bob when the pendulum is at angle θ to the vertical, what expression do you get for the tension?
 
Are you sure T stands for tension? Are pendulums important in physics because they measure tension?
 

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