Physics
Define the terms: (i) oscillation (ii) amplitude (iii) frequency, and (iv) time period as related to a simple pendulum
Answer
(i) Oscillation – One complete to and fro motion of the bob of pendulum is called one oscillation.
(ii) Amplitude – The maximum displacement of the bob from its mean position on either side, is called the amplitude of oscillation. It is denoted by the letter a or A and is measured in metre(m).
(iii) Frequency – The number of oscillations made in one second is called the frequency. It is denoted by f or n. Its unit is per second (s-1) or hertz (Hz).
(iv) Time period – The time taken to complete one oscillation is the time period. It is denoted by the symbol T. Its unit is in second (s).
Related Questions
Identify the incorrect statement(s) from the following :
(I) The time period of oscillations depends on the extent of swing on either side.
(II) The time period of oscillations is directly proportional to the square root of acceleration due to gravity.
(III) The time period of oscillations is inversely proportional to the square root of its effective length.
(IV) The time period of oscillations does not depend on the mass or material of the suspended body.
- (II) and (III)
- Only (II)
- Only (IV)
- (I), (II) and (III)
Define 'amplitude of oscillation'.
Name two factors on which the time period of a simple pendulum does not depend.
How is the time period of a simple pendulum affected, if at all, in the following situations:
(a) The length is made four times,
(b) The acceleration due to gravity is reduced to one-fourth.