EXPERIMENT 03

Measuring Time Period of a Simple Pendulum

Objectives:

In this lab, we are going to measure time period of a simple pendulum.

Equipment / Tools:

• Retort Stand
• Pendulum Bob
• Thread
• Meter Rule
• Stop Watch
• Vernier Caliper

Background:

A simple pendulum consists of a relatively massive object hung by a string from a fixed
support. It typically hangs vertically in its equilibrium position. The massive object is
affectionately referred to as the pendulum bob. When the bob is displaced from equilibrium and
then released, it begins its back and forth vibration about its fixed equilibrium position. The
motion is regular and repeating, an example of periodic motion.

Procedure:

The period of oscillation of a simple pendulum is given by

l
T = 2π
g
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Where l is the length of the pendulum and g, the acceleration due to gravity. This equation can
also be written as:

4π 2

T = 2
l
g
Point of suspension

cm of the
ruler

Figure 3.1: A Simple Pendulum

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Hold a split cork tightly using a clamp with a string passing through the split cork. Tie the
pendulum bob to one end of the string leaving the other end free after passing through the split
cork. The length of the pendulum l is measured from the bottom of the split cork to the center of
the bob. Set up a pendulum of length 0.1 m and set it into oscillations of small amplitude.
Measure the time taken for 10 complete oscillations. Do these three times and obtain the
average time for 10 oscillations. Divide this average time by 10 to obtain the period of
oscillation. Repeat the experiment for l = 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.8, 0.9 and 1.0 m. Record
your data as follows:

Results:

Table 3.1: Practical Results

L (m) Time for 10 oscillations Tp Tt Difference

t1 (s) t2 (s) t3 (s) Average (s) (s) Tp-Tt

(s)

0.10

0.15

0.20

0.25

0.30

0.35

Theoretical Calculations:
Table 3.2: Calculated Results

L (m) Tt (s)
0.40
0.50
0.60
0.70
0.80
0.90
1.00

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