Ve

torsion
Torsion pendulum (Dynamic
Rigidity
method):
modulus by
FA
wire with o n e end fixed in a split
The torsion pendulum consists of a
circular disc a s in Fig. 1.10.
chuck and the other end to the centre of a
Two equal symmetrical masses (each equal to m) are placed allong a
diameter ofthe disc at equal distances d, on either side of the centre ofthe
disc. The disc is rotated through an angle and is then released. The system
executes torsional oscillations about the axis of the wire. The period of
oscillations T, is determined.

Then B
T-2.
d
or T2-4T
Fig. 1.10
16 Properties of Matter

Here, - Moment of inertia of the whole system about the axis of the wire and
c= torque per unit twist.
Let I= M.IL of the disc alone about the axis of the wire.
i= M.I. of each mass about a parallel axis passing through its centre of gravity
Then by the parallel axes theorem,
=1+2i +2md2
T2-- +2i +2m.d] ...(1)
centre of the disc and the
The two masses are now kept at equal distances d, from the
coresponding period T, is determined. Then,

...(2)
T2- +2i+2md,]

T2-T2= 4T.2m-(d? -d)

C
.(3)

But c =T Ga/2L

T-T2-
4T2m (d, d) 2L -

Hence
T Ga
G=6T Lm (d, d) -

or
a (7-T)
Using this relation, G is determined.
M.I. of the disc by torsional oscillations. The two equal masses are removed and the period
T is found when the disc alone is vibrating. Then,
T2 1, or l= (4)
4T
4r 2m (d, -d) by
From (3) pera
7,-T
Hence
4r2m (d-d) T 2m(d,-d)T
T-7 T-T
From this relation, the moment of inertia of the disc about the axis
of the wire is calculated.