Understanding T^2 x L Graphing for Simple Pendulum Experiment

[shivam28]

Summary: Question regarding graphing a T^2 x L graph for a simple pendulum

I did a Simple Pendulum experiment in my college physics class the other day. We were asked to graph a T^2 x L graph based off our results. I plan on using the Length on the x-axis and the T^2 on the Y-axis.

This may seem like a simple question but how would I find my T^2? Is it just simply the Period (T) that we timed but squared? For example: T = 1.10s is 1.21 T^2. Or, is there some kind of formula I need to find T^2? Here is a picture of my table that will hopefully clarify:

Based off my picture above, should I plot my first coordinate at (28, 1.10) or (28, 1.21)?

 

[BvU]

You need T² as the ordinate: you expect a linear dependency on T², not on T.

 

[shivam28]

You need T² as the ordinate: you expect a linear dependency on T², not on T.

Sorry, I don't believe I understand.

 

[shivam28]

You need T² as the ordinate: you expect a linear dependency on T², not on T.

So Should I be squaring my T values to get T^2 and use those as the values on my Y-axis?

 

[gmax137]

I would plot L (meters) on the x-axis and T^2 (seconds^2) on the y-axis.

 

[shivam28]

I would plot L (meters) on the x-axis and T^2 (seconds^2) on the y-axis.

Yup, that's what I said I was going to do. I'm only confused on how to get my T^2. Is it just squaring the T value that I already have written down (1.10 to 1.21), or is there an equation for it (I've seen people do it both ways on different forums, with different answers).

 

[haruspex]

Is it just squaring the T value that I already have written down (1.10 to 1.21)

Yes.

I've seen people do it both ways on different forums

Please post an example or link for the 'other' way.

 

[sophiecentaur]

So Should I be squaring my T values to get T^2 and use those as the values on my Y-axis?

Just DO IT and see what happens. Make y = T² and plot x against y.