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Properties of the Pendulum

CSEF · 2002 Physics & Astronomy

Rebecca J. Olson · Parkside Intermediate School, San Bruno

Overview

Objectives/Goals My objective was to find which variable - weight, length, or amplitude - would have the greatest effect on the period of a pendulum. I believed that weight, length, and amplitude would each have an equal effect on the period. Methods/Materials I constructed a pendulum to test different weights, lengths, and amplitudes to see which would have the greatest effect on the period of the pendulum. I then tested three different lengths, 30 cm, 60 cm, and 90 cm; three different amplitudes, 20?, 45?, and 70?; and three different weights, 1-1/4 oz, 2-1/2 oz, and 3-3/4 oz. I timed each of these variables 10 times for one period of motion. Results I found that length made the most significant difference in time. Weight and amplitude made little or no difference. Conclusions/Discussion My hypothesis was not supported. I found that length made the most significant difference in time.

Summary statement

To determine what affects the period of a pendulum -- weight, length, or amplitude.

Help received

Father used power tools to cut pendulum materials to size and helped with the assembly of pendulum.

Competition history

  • CSEF 2002 Physics & Astronomy · Entry J1528

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