If the period of a pendulum on another planet is four times its period measured on Earth, what is the gravitational acceleration on the planet? Show the equation used and your calculations
Simple harmonic motion
Simple harmonic motion is a type of periodic motion in which an object undergoes oscillatory motion. The restoring force exerted by the object exhibiting SHM is proportional to the displacement from the equilibrium position. The force is directed towards the mean position. We see many examples of SHM around us, common ones are the motion of a pendulum, spring and vibration of strings in musical instruments, and so on.
Simple Pendulum
A simple pendulum comprises a heavy mass (called bob) attached to one end of the weightless and flexible string.
Oscillation
In Physics, oscillation means a repetitive motion that happens in a variation with respect to time. There is usually a central value, where the object would be at rest. Additionally, there are two or more positions between which the repetitive motion takes place. In mathematics, oscillations can also be described as vibrations. The most common examples of oscillation that is seen in daily lives include the alternating current (AC) or the motion of a moving pendulum.
a. If the period of a pendulum on another planet is four times its period measured on Earth, what is the gravitational acceleration on the planet? Show the equation used and your calculations.
b. If you took a pendulum to the moon where g = 1.6 m/s2, what change would you observe in its period?
c. Are there factors other than length and gravitational acceleration that affect the period of the pendulum? Why is the period of a pendulum bob independent of its mass?
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