the pendulum Flashcards
How does a pendulum move?
It moves along the line between the bobs highest positions as A and B on each side
Why does a pendulum take a long time to stop swinging?
Because there is very little air resistance on it or friction at the point of suspension
What is the amplitude of an oscillating object?
The distance it moves from its equilibrium position O to its highest position of A or B on either side
What is the time period of a pendulum?
The time taken for one complete cycle of its motion:
• the time it takes to swing across and back from its highest position on one side
•the time between successive passes in the same direction through its equilibrium position O
What effects the time period of a pendulum?
It’s length; the time period of a pendulum increases as its length increases
What does the frequency of the oscillations mean?
The number of complete cycles of oscillation per second
What is the unit for frequency?
Hertz (Hz)
How does the frequency of oscillations affect the time period?
The greater the frequency of the oscillations, the shorter the time period
How can the time period be worked out?
time period (s) = 1 / frequency of the oscillations (Hz)
Why do the oscillations of an empty fairground swing boat have a longer time period than one filled with people?
Because the centre of mass of the boat and its occupants is higher than the centre of mass of the empty boat
What is an example of an oscillating motion?
The motion of a swing in a playground
