In this experiment, I will investigate what affects the frequency of a pendulum. Pendulum clocks have been used to keep time since 1656 and were the first clocks made to have any sort of accuracy.

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Physics Coursework- Investigation on Pendulums

Introduction

In this experiment, I will investigate what affects the frequency of a pendulum.  Pendulum clocks have been used to keep time since 1656 and were the first clocks made to have any sort of accuracy.  Clock designers had to face and solved a number of interesting problems to create accurate timekeeping devices.  Today I will investigate what variables could affect the period of the pendulum.  I will change the independent variable 5 times, so as to get sufficient results.

Reasons for my predictions

  1. Increase in mass of pendulum:

When the mass of the pendulum is increased, I think the frequency is likely to decrease.  This is because if the pendulum is heavier, it is inclined to move slower.

  1. Increase the length of the swing:

If the swing is longer, the arc of the circle, which the pendulum traces, will be longer, so the swing will take longer.

  1. Increase the width of displacement:

I think this will cause the frequency to be increased, as the greater the angle of displacement, the more time the pendulum will have to gather speed, therefore, the period will be increase.

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  1. Aerodynamics:

If the aerodynamics were less streamlines (if the bob was not a smooth circle), there would be more air-resistance, therefore decreasing the frequency.

  1. Increase the height of the Clamp stand:

I believe this would have no effect on the frequency of the pendulum, as it is not directly affecting it, only where it takes place.  If the height of the stand did effect the pendulum swing, pendulums would not be suitable to use inside clocks, as they would vary depending on where they are.

Method

1.Increase mass of pendulum:

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