Pendulum Period Formula:
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A simple pendulum consists of a weight suspended from a pivot so that it can swing freely. The period is the time for one complete cycle of oscillation.
The calculator uses the period formula:
Where:
Explanation: The period is calculated by dividing the total time by the number of complete back-and-forth swings.
Details: Knowing the period helps in understanding pendulum motion, verifying physical laws, and calibrating timekeeping devices.
Tips: Enter the total measurement time in seconds and the number of complete cycles. Both values must be positive numbers.
Q1: What affects a pendulum's period?
A: For small angles, period depends mainly on length and gravity. Mass and amplitude don't affect it significantly.
Q2: What are typical pendulum periods?
A: A 1-meter pendulum on Earth has about 2-second period. Shorter pendulums swing faster.
Q3: How accurate is this calculation?
A: Very accurate for small angles (<15°). For larger angles, more complex formulas are needed.
Q4: Why measure multiple cycles?
A: Measuring over more cycles reduces timing errors and gives more accurate period values.
Q5: Can this be used for any pendulum?
A: This works for simple pendulums. Physical pendulums (real objects) require different formulas.