Variable 'G' Pendulum

The pendulum used here can act as a mathematical (simple) pendulum. However, depending on the position of the pendulum weight, the length measured between the pivot point and the centre of the moveable weight can be varied.
In the present setup one can rotate the oscillation plane around the angle θ with respect to the vertical plane thus altering the value of ‘g’. The time period of oscillation at angle θ is given as:
T(θ) = 2π(L/ g_eff )½
where g_eff = g.cos θ

Features:

• Hand-held digital timer with membrane keypad.
• Investigate the pendulum oscillation in the vertical plane, the horizontal plane, and for any angle in between.
• Simulate the pendulum oscillation as it would behave on the moon.
• Automatically measure the oscillation period using the light barrier.

Objectives:

• To measure the period of oscillation of pendulum, by changing the angle θ.
• Effect of large amplitude on time period.
• To measure the period of oscillation by changing the length of pendulum.
• As the variable g-pendulum also allow to vary the acceleration due to gravity acting on pendulum.

Technical Data:

Digital Timer & Photogate

• Display : 2 line LCD
• Type : Micro controller based
• Time resolution : 0.1 milli second
• Mode : Time, Speed, Acceleration, count & mask
• Photogate : 1 No.
• Interface : USB
• Operating voltage : 5V DC
• Photogate detector : Infra-Red

Support base & support rod:

• “A” shape base : Cast iron
• Support rod : Mild steel
• Mounting rod : Mild steel
• Circular disk : PVC
• Pendulum rod : Al pipe, 360 x 10 mm
• Pendulum weight : Mild steel, dimension 30 x 10 mm (OD x ID)

Scope of Delivery:

• 1 Bar pendulum
• 1 Pendulum Weight
• 1 Pendulum holder with pointer
• 1 Circular disk with Circular Scale
• 1 Digital timer with adapter
• 1 Photogate with cable
• 1 Mounting rod
• 1 “A” shape base
• 1 Support rod
• 2 Boss head

Key Topics:

• Oscillation period
• Harmonic oscillation
• Mathematical pendulum
• Physical pendulum
• Decomposition of force
• Moment of inertia