Concepts

Simple harmonic motion, conservation of energy

Overview

A ball is suspended from a pivot so that it can swing freely. The length of the pendulum is adjustable. For small amplitude, the motion of the pendulum as a function of time is approximately simple harmonic motion. Also, the pendulum can be used to show conversion of potential to kinetic energy.

Details

Equipment

• [1] Ball attached to a string
• [1] Lab stand
• [1] 90-degree clamp
• [1] Hosecock clamp (used as a pivot)

Classroom Assembly

1. Suspend the string on a screw clamp. 
2. Attach the screw clamp to a lab stand.
3. Adjust the length of the pendulum as necessary.

Script

1. Displace the ball sideways from its equilibrium position and release it.

Additional Resources