Physics Lab: investigation to determine a value for acceleration due to gravity (g) using pendulum motion
This post is on Physics Lab work for performing a first-hand investigation to determine a value of acceleration due to gravity (g) using pendulum motion . This experiment is discussed extensively in order to provide an example of how students should approach experiments and how experimental data should be processed. [Caution: Students are suggested to consult Lab instructors & teachers before proceeding to avoid any kind of hazard.]
Aim (determine a value for g using pendulum motion)
To perform a first-hand investigation using simple pendulum motion to determine a value of acceleration due to the Earth’s
gravity (g).
Theory
The period of a pendulum (T) is related to the length of the string of the pendulum (L) by the equation:
T = 2π√(L/g)
Equipment/apparatus
Retort stand,
boss head, and clamp,
string and mass bob,
Stopwatch, ruler
Procedure (to determine acceleration due to gravity value using pendulum motion)
- Set up the apparatus as shown in the diagram:
- Measure the effective length of the pendulum from the top of the string to the center of the mass bob. The length should be approximately 1 m.
- Move the mass so that the string makes an angle of about 5° with the vertical. Release the bob. Use a stopwatch to record the time for 10 complete oscillations.
Note: Divide the time by 10 to calculate the period of the swings, where the period is the time needed by the pendulum for one complete swing.
- Change the length of the string to 0.8 m, and then repeat step 3.
- Repeat step 4, changing the length of the string to 0.6 m and then to 0.4 m.
- Use appropriate formulae to find the period of the pendulum and the value of g (see below).
See also Extension-Load graph of Spring with Lab set-up and Analysis of the graph
Results
Record the data in the table below following the instructions in the section above.
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