Overview A simple pendulum consists of a mass (or bob) attached to a string or rod of negligible mass, swinging back and forth under the influence of gravity. The period of oscillation depends on the length of the string and the acceleration due to gravity.
The time period T of a simple pendulum is given by the equation:
Where:
T is the time period (the time taken for one complete oscillation),
L is the length of the string (distance from the pivot to the center of mass of the bob),
g is the acceleration due to gravity (approximately 9.81 m/s2).
Significance The simple pendulum is a classic experiment that demonstrates periodic motion and the relationship between the oscillation period and physical properties like length and gravitational acceleration. It is fundamental in understanding simple harmonic motion and is often used to calculate the value of g when the period and length are known.