Simple Pendulum Experiment for Class XI for SHM

Observation Table for Experiment

here’s a simple experiment to investigate the factors affecting the period of a simple pendulum. A simple pendulum consists of a mass (called the bob) attached to a string or rod of fixed length.

Title: Factors Affecting the Period of a Simple Pendulum

Objective:

To investigate how the period of a simple pendulum is affected by changes in the length of the string.

Materials:

1. A heavy bob (a small mass, like a metal washer or a small container filled with sand)
2. A string or thread
3. A ruler or measuring tape
4. A stopwatch or timer
5. A support stand or a fixed point to hang the pendulum from
6. Protractor (optional)

Procedure:

1. Setup:
   • Attach the bob to one end of the string.
   • Hang the other end of the string from a fixed point or a support stand, ensuring that the string is free to swing.
   • Measure and record the initial length of the string.
2. Swing the Pendulum:
   • Displace the bob slightly to one side and release it, allowing it to swing freely.
   • Use the stopwatch to measure the time it takes for the pendulum to complete one full swing back and forth. This time is called the period (T).
   • Repeat this process multiple times to obtain an average value for T.
3. Variable Lengths:
   • Change the length of the string by adding or removing some length.
   • Repeat steps 2 for each different length of the string.
   • Ensure that you keep other variables (e.g., amplitude of the swing) constant during each trial.
4. Data Collection:
   • Record the period (T) for each different length of the string.
5. Analysis:
   • Plot a graph of period (T) against the length of the string.
   • Analyze the relationship between the period and the length of the string.

Notes:

• Ensure that the amplitude (angle of displacement) of the pendulum swing remains small to maintain the validity of the simple pendulum model.
• You may also investigate the effect of changing the mass of the bob on the period or other factors affecting the simple pendulum.

This experiment allows you to explore the principles of simple harmonic motion and helps you understand how the period of a simple pendulum depends on its length.