Measurement of Time and a simple pendulum

Question 1

Define a Simple Pendulum

Answer 1

A simple pendulum is a heavy point mass (known as a bob) suspended from a rigid support by a massless inextensible string.

Question 2

What type of pendulum is used in a clock?

Answer 2

The pendulum used in a clock is not a simple pendulum, but it is a compound pendulum, i.e. a body capable of oscillating about a horizontal axis passing through it.

Question 3

Oscillation

Answer 3

One complete to and fro motion of the bob of the pendulum is called one oscillation.

Question 4

Period of Oscillation/Time Period

Answer 4

Period of Oscillation/Time period is the time taken to complete one oscillation

Question 5

Frequency of Oscillation

Answer 5

It is the number of oscillations made in one second.

Question 6

Effective Length of a Pendulum

Answer 6

Effective Length of a pendulum is the distance of the point of oscillation O (i.e the centre of gravity of the bob) from the point of suspension S.