Question

What is a simple pendulum? What are the factors affecting the time period of a simple pendulum?

Answer 1

1. Simple pendulum: A simple pendulum consists of a small metal ball (called bob) suspended by a long thread from rigid support, such that the bob is free to swing back and forth.
2. The time period of a simple pendulum depends upon the following factors.
3. Length: The time period of a simple pendulum is directly proportional to the square root of its length.
4. Acceleration due to gravity: The time period of the simple pendulum is inversely proportional to the square root of the acceleration due to gravity at that place. If the value of g decreases, the time period of the pendulum increases.
5. Mass of the bob: The time period of a simple pendulum does not depend on the mass of the bob.
6. Amplitude of the oscillation: The time period of a simple pendulum does not depend upon the amplitude of the oscillation.
7. Nature of the material of the bob: The time period of a simple pendulum does not depend on the nature of the material of the bob.