# Physics II Lab 1.docx - PHYS 2426 Lab 1 Pendulum Periods...

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PHYS 2426 Lab 1: Pendulum Periods August 30, 2019
ABSTRACT In this experiment, we will be measuring the period of one pendulum swing using a Photogate and LabQuest. During the experiment we will determine how the amplitude, mass, and length affect the period of the pendulum swing. INTRODUCTION The history of the pendulum swing dates back to many years, and it was even used inside clocks beneficial for astronomical measurements at the Greenwich Observatory, proving its relevance. A pendulum swing in motion maintains a steady, regular beat, and the motion can be affected by: the amplitude of the pendulum swing, the length of the pendulum’s string, and the mass of the pendulum bob. A controlled experiment is required to investigate the purpose behind a pendulum swing’s motion, and the aforementioned factors that can affect the motion can be studied carefully as well. Pendulum swings are also utilized to understand the free-fall due to acceleration, as represented by the equation: T = 2 π Equation 1 Overall, the pendulum swing experiment helps gain an understanding on the amplitude, the period, the motion, and the Newton’s law behind the motion. OBJECTIVES • Measure the period of a pendulum as a function of amplitude. • Measure the period of a pendulum as a function of length. • Measure the period of a pendulum as a function of bob mass. MATERIALS LabQuest Photogate 2 ring stands and pendulum clamp Masses of 100 g, 200 g, and 300 g Vernier Photogate
Meter stick Protractor String PRELIMINARY QUESTIONS 1. Make a pendulum by tying a 100 cm string to a mass. Hold the string in your hand and let the mass swing. • Observing only with your eyes, does the period depend on the length of the string?
• Does the period depend on the amplitude of the swing?