PURPOSE: To show that a ball moving in the path of a cycloid will oscillate with SHM.
DESCRIPTION: A ball moving in the path of a cycloid will oscillate in SHM with constant frequency no matter how high along the curve it is started. Release the ball from a predetermined height and use a stopwatch to time the oscillations. Repeat by releasing the ball from a different height and note the the frequency of oscillation is the same.
EQUIPMENT: Cycloid curve, as photographed. Stopwatch.
SETUP NOTES: The cycloid curve is stored in the rafters of room 55.