Torsion Pendulum with Swiveling Masses, 1Q10.70

Location:

• UNDER CONSTRUCTION

• Cabinet: Mechanic (ME)

Description:

The apparatus is a torsion pendulum. A standard torsion pendulum simply has masses at the ends of its arms. This apparatus does have masses in those locations, but they are large massive wheels. They are free to rotate about their local axis which is oriented vertically in the same plane as the main axis of the torsion pendulum. The wheels can be locked in place and prevented form spinning with a locking pin. When the wheels are locked. The apparatus behaves like a standard torsion pendulum. When the locking pins are removed, and the wheels are free to spin, the apparatus has a lower moment of inertia and therefore a smaller period of oscillation.

Important Setup Notes:

• N/A

Setup:

• N/A

Cautions, Warnings, or Safety Concerns:

• N/A

Demonstration:

First, set the pendulum in motion with the wheels locked. Have the students note the period. Then, stop it, remove the locking pins, and set it in motion again. Note the much faster oscillations, the shorter period. Also note the oscillations of the wheels about their local axis.

SwivelTorsionPendulum.pdf

References:

1. N/A

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