Why Does the Pendulum Angle Calculation Show 60° Instead of 30°?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the calculation of the angle in a pendulum problem, specifically addressing why the calculated angle is reported as 60° instead of the expected 30°. The subject area pertains to mechanics, particularly the forces acting on a pendulum.

Discussion Character

  • Mixed

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the equations of motion for the pendulum, including the relationships between tension, gravitational force, and acceleration. There is an attempt to derive the angle using trigonometric identities, leading to a calculation of 30°. Some participants question the validity of the book's answer of 60°.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants expressing differing views on the correctness of the angle calculation. Some participants are questioning the reliability of the textbook, while others defend it based on their prior experiences. There is no explicit consensus on the correct angle at this stage.

Contextual Notes

Participants are operating under the assumption that the textbook is typically reliable, but there is a notable uncertainty regarding this specific problem. The original poster's calculations and the textbook's answer are in conflict, prompting further exploration of the assumptions made in the problem setup.

cupid.callin
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Homework Statement


attachment.php?attachmentid=33446&stc=1&d=1300915884.jpg



The Attempt at a Solution



Here my figure showing forces:

attachment.php?attachmentid=33447&stc=1&d=1300915884.png


SO here,

Tcosθ = mg
Tsinθ = mao

so tanθ =ao/g = 1/√3

so θ = 30o, right?

but it answer says its 60o
 

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books wrong... i also got the same asnwer
 
that can't be
book hasn't been wrong ever till now (and i have done like 80% of it)
 
Does everyone think that answer is 30 ?
 

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