Mechanics: Conical Pendulum

PIRA Class: 1D50.25

Purpose:
To demonstrate the cone traced out by the string of a pendulum swinging in a circle. Can be used as a challenge problem related to uniform circular motion. Have students derive an equation for the period then experimentally test their prediction by timing 10 periods of the demo.

Description:
A pendulum hanging from a ring stand. Set the pendulum into motion in a horizontal circle and view the motion from above.

Equipment:
Ring stand, string, hanging mass, meter stick and timer if taking measurements

Location:
Shelves 153 (ring stand), 151 (weights), string is in a drawer directly across from the door to PHYS-102, scissors are on the demo room desk