Use this simple pendulum simulator to explore how string length, bob mass, starting angle, gravity, and damping affect a swinging pendulum. Watch the animation, compare energy changes, and study the angle versus time graph.
How to use the simple pendulum simulator
Set the string length
Move the length slider and watch how the period changes. Longer pendulums swing more slowly.
Change the bob mass
Try a heavier or lighter bob. The energy values change, but the ideal period stays nearly the same.
Adjust gravity and damping
Use Moon gravity or add damping to see how the motion changes over time.
Read the graph
The angle versus time graph shows how the pendulum swings from one side to the other.
Best learning outcome
Learners should discover that the period of a simple pendulum mainly depends on string length and gravity, not bob mass. Mass changes the amount of energy in joules, but it does not control the ideal swing timing.
Simple pendulum period formula
For small swings, the period of a simple pendulum is estimated by:
T ≈ 2π√(L/g)In this formula, L is string length and g is gravity. Notice that mass is not included.
Energy in a pendulum
Potential energy
Potential energy is greatest near the highest points of the swing.
Kinetic energy
Kinetic energy is greatest near the bottom, where the bob moves fastest.
Total energy
With no damping, total mechanical energy stays nearly constant.
Damping
Damping represents friction or air resistance, so the swing gradually gets smaller.
Ideas for practice
- Double the bob mass and check whether the period changes.
- Double the string length and compare the new period.
- Switch from Earth gravity to Moon gravity and watch the swing slow down.
- Increase damping and explain why the energy bars shrink.
Frequently asked questions
What is a simple pendulum?
A simple pendulum is an ideal model of a small mass hanging from a light string that swings back and forth under gravity.
Does bob mass affect the pendulum period?
In the ideal simple pendulum model, mass does not affect the period. Length and gravity matter much more.
What does damping mean?
Damping means energy is gradually removed by friction or air resistance, so the swing becomes smaller.
Why does the angle versus time graph shrink when damping is high?
The graph shrinks because damping removes mechanical energy from the system.
