Simple Pendulum: Period vs. Length

Theory

For small oscillations, the period of a simple pendulum is $T=2\pi \sqrt{L/g}$ — independent of mass and amplitude. A pendulum 4× longer swings with twice the period.

What to observe

• L = 5 m → T ≈ 4.49 s; L = 2.5 m → T ≈ 3.17 s.
• In the graph, measure the time between two peaks.

Try this

• Change the mass of a bob: the period does not change.
• Set g to the Moon’s value: everything slows down.

Also available in: Pêndulo simples: período e comprimento (Português) · Péndulo simple: período y longitud (Español)