3a15.10 Physical Pendulum

PURPOSE: To show SHM with a physical pendulum.

DESCRIPTION: When the physical pendulum is raised to a small angle and released it will move with SHM.  If it is raised to a high angle and released the motion is no longer linear and no longer Simple Harmonic Motion. 

The above photo shows the official physical pendulum.  But the  preferred device is the meter stick or the broom stick because they are more natural and less sterile.

EQUIPMENT:  Simple pendulum, as photographed.

SETUP NOTES: Stored in mechanics.