PHET Interactive Simulations: Pendulum Lab

Topics

Periodic Motion
Simple Harmonic Motion
Conservation of Energy
Period
Pendulum

Description

Play with one or two pendulums and discover how the period of a simple pendulum depends on the length of the string, the mass of the pendulum bob, the strength of gravity, and the amplitude of the swing. Observe the energy in the system in real-time, and vary the amount of friction. Measure the period using the stopwatch or period timer. Use the pendulum to find the value of g on Planet X. Notice the anharmonic behavior at large amplitude.

Sample Learning Goals

Design experiments to determine which variables affect the period of a pendulum
Quantitatively describe how the period of a pendulum depends on these variables
Explain the small-angle approximation, and define what constitutes a “small” angle
Determine the gravitational acceleration of Planet X
Explain the conservation of mechanical energy, using kinetic energy and gravitational potential energy
Describe the Energy Graph from the position and speed of the pendulum