Determination of the acceleration of free fall using a mathematical pendulum
The acceleration due to gravity can be determined experimentally using a mathematical pendulum. A mathematical pendulum is a simple pendulum with a small, point-like mass suspended from a light, rigid rod of negligible mass.
To determine the acceleration due to gravity using a mathematical pendulum, follow these steps:
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Measure the length of the pendulum from the point of suspension to the center of mass of the pendulum bob.
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Set the pendulum in motion by displacing it from its equilibrium position and releasing it. Measure the time it takes for the pendulum to complete one oscillation (i.e., swing back and forth once).
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Repeat step 2 several times and record the time for each oscillation.
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Calculate the period of the pendulum by averaging the times for several oscillations. The period T of a pendulum is the time it takes for one complete oscillation and is given by:
T = 2π * sqrt(L/g)
where L is the length of the pendulum and g is the acceleration due to gravity.
- Rearrange the equation to solve for g:
g = 4π^2 * L / T^2
- Substitute the values of L and T obtained from the experiment and calculate the value of g.
Note that the accuracy of the value of g obtained from this experiment depends on the accuracy of the measurement of the length of the pendulum and the period of oscillation. It is also important to ensure that the pendulum swings in a small amplitude and that air resistance is negligible.