Pendulum Theory; how to improve accuracy to determine g

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TaraMarshall
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Theory based;
Using a pendulum to determine g

Method:
1. Set up the retort stand and clamp on the edge of a desk. Tie on the string and adjust its length to about 90cm before attaching a 50g mass carrier.
2. Using the metre rule, carefully measure the length of the pendulum from the knot at its top to the base.
3. Set the pendulum swinging at a 30 degree angle and use the stopwatch to time 10 complete back and forth swings (oscillations)
4. Repeat steps 2 and 3 at least 5 times, after shortening the string by 5cm each time.


Question:
How does this method generally give very accurate results?
What could I do to improve the method of this experiment to make it more accurate?
 
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