Physics

London Clarke

14 June, 18:36

The period T of a simple pendulum depends

on the length L of the pendulum and the acceleration of

gravity g (dimensions L/T^2). (a) Find a simple combination of

L and g that has the dimensions of time. (b) Check the

dependence of the period T on the length L by measuring

the period (time for a complete swing back and forth) of

a pendulum for two different values of L. (c) The correct

formula relating T to L and g involves a constant that is a

multiple of pi, and cannot be obtained by the dimensional

analysis of Part (a). It can be found by experiment as in

Part (b) if g is known. Using the value g = 9.81 m/s² and your

experimental results from Part (b), find the formula relating T

to L and g.