Year 12s: what will be the first way you research your future options? >>

Simple Pendulum

Hi, How can I prove that a pendulum follows SHM? I have data from an experiment and the angle used is 20 degreesBefore using the T = 2pi*SqRoot(L/g) I want to say the Pendulum follows SHM Could someone help me about how I can prove it pleaseeeeeeeeeeeee?Thanks

Reply 1

Joinedup

That's similar to a recent post about SHM in a spring and mass system http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/pendl.html#c2

simple pendulums are a bit different in that they approximate SHM (because the restoring force is part of a vector triangle) you can show SHM by using a small angle approximation - the approximation of SHM is close when the angle is 'small'

http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/pendl.html#c2

Reply 2

Eimmanuel

Study Forum Helper

Original post by CalissaRelics

You may want to watch this video starting at 27:48 to see the "proof". You may want to double-check with your teacher about the angle (20 deg) you use. If this is the angle given by your teacher, then use it.