Understanding the Simple Pendulum
A simple pendulum consists of a mass (the bob) attached to a string or rod of fixed length, swinging back and forth under the influence of gravity.
Time to Reach Extreme Positions
- The question states that the pendulum takes 2 seconds to move from one extreme position (maximum displacement on one side) to the other extreme position (maximum displacement on the opposite side).
Time Period of the Pendulum
- The total time taken for the pendulum to complete one full cycle (from one extreme, back to the starting point, and then to the opposite extreme) is called the time period (T).
- Since the pendulum takes 2 seconds to go from one extreme position to the other, this represents half of the time period.
Calculating the Time Period
- Therefore, the time period (T) can be calculated as follows:
- T = Time to go from one extreme to the other × 2
- T = 2 seconds × 2
- T = 4 seconds
Conclusion
- In summary, the time period of the pendulum is 4 seconds. This means it takes 4 seconds to complete one full oscillation, moving from one extreme position to the other and back again. Understanding this concept is fundamental to grasping the mechanics of pendulums and their behavior in motion.