To investigate and observe how the amplitude (angle of release), affects the time period of one oscillation of a pendulum.

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Factor: Amplitude (angle of release.)

Aim – To investigate and observe how the amplitude (angle of release), affects the time period of one oscillation of a pendulum.

Prediction – As I conducted my preliminary experiments I found that as I increase the amplitude of the pendulum string the time for one oscillation increases. Hence I predict that as I increase the amplitude of the pendulum string the time period for one oscillation increases.

Hypothesis – In my prediction I stated that as I increase the amplitude of the pendulum string the time period for one oscillation increases. This is backed up on the scientific theory that if the pendulum is raised at a greater angle it will have to cover a greater distance. Also as it is raised higher it will have more gravitational potential energy than kinetic energy. The higher the angle is the greater the gravitational potential energy. Since there is more gravitational potential energy, it means that there will be less kinetic energy as less of the gravitational potential energy will be converted to kinetic energy, and that there is more distance to cover. The pendulum will encounter more air resistance, as the bob and the pendulum string causes friction with the air it gradually creates heat energy which is low grade and no use can come of it.

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Variables:

Independent variable - I am changing the amplitude (angle of release.)

Dependent variable – I will be recording the time taken for 10 oscillations.

Control – Length of string (50cm), mass of bob (34.7g), gravitational constant (Earths gravitational pull) and type of string.

        

Apparatus:

  • Cork.
  • Stopwatch.
  • Bob.
  • String.
  • Scissors.
  • Clamp stand.
  • Protractor.
  • Metre ruler.
  • Top pan balance.

Method:

  1. Use the ruler to measure approximately 50cm of string. Leave a few centimetres extra, as you are required to tie it, this will compensate for the extra string need ...

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