Physical Pendulum oscillation problem

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on calculating the frequency of a physical pendulum consisting of a meter stick pivoted 20 cm from one end. The professor states that the correct frequency for small oscillations is approximately 0.67 Hz, while a participant consistently calculates it as 0.78 Hz. The participant uses the moment of inertia formula for a stick pivoted at its center, leading to an incorrect result. Another contributor points out that the parallel axis theorem must be applied since the pivot is not at the center of mass. The conversation emphasizes the importance of using the correct moment of inertia for accurate frequency calculations.
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(9) A physical pendulum consists of a meter stick (1 meter long) pivoted at a distance 20 cm
from one end and suspended freely. The frequency for small oscillation is closest to
(a) 0.67 Hz (b) 0.8 Hz (c) 1.1 Hz (d) 1.7 Hz (e) Insufficient information
(Hint: The moment of inertia of a stick of mass m and length L about its center of mass is mL2/12.)

Professor says the correct answer is (a) 0.67 Hz

I don't know what I do wrong on this question but I always get the frequency equal to .78Hz which is closer to .8Hz.

T = 2pi sqrt(I/(mgd)) I = moment of inertia

so T = 2pi sqrt((1/12)mL^2) / (mgL(1/5)))

T = 2pi sqrt(5L/12g)

T = 2pi sqrt(5/(12 * 9.8))

T = 1.29

f = 1/1.29 = .775

can someone tell me what I am doing wrong?

Thanks
 
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The moment of inertia you are using is wrong. The stick is not pivoting about its center. If it were there would be no oscillations at all. You will need to use the parallel axis theorem.
 
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