Comparing two identical pendulums?

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In summary, two identical simple pendulums, of length 0.25 m and period T, are mounted side-by-side. One is released from rest with an initial angular displacement of π/9 rad, and the other is started with an initial angular velocity of 0.1 rad/s at θ = 0. They are both started in motion simultaneously. The equation of motion for both oscillators reads: x = Acos(ωt+δ). After 0.6 seconds, they differ in phase by π. After a time of T, they both return to their initial displacement. They may have different frequencies depending on the initial conditions, and their amplitudes may differ based on the specific values given in the
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Homework Statement



Two identical simple pendulums, of length 0.25 m and period T, are mounted side-by-side. One is released from rest with an initial angular displacement of π/9 rad, and the other is started with an initial angular velocity of 0.1 rad/s at θ = 0. They are both started in motion simultaneously. Which of the following statements are true?
A: The equation of motion for both oscillators reads: x = Acos(ωt+δ)
B: After 0.6 seconds they differ in phase by π.
C: After a time of T, they both return to their initial displacement.
D: They both have the same amplitude.

Homework Equations


x(t)=Acos(ωt+δ)

The Attempt at a Solution


What I'm really confused about is the initial angular velocity for the second pendulum. How does this work exactly? Like how do I incorporate it into my equations? The "natural" ω would be √(g/L)≈6.3rad/s. So is the second one driven?
Anyways
A: True this is the equation of motion for all pendulums, right? Or is it False because for the second one, it's "pushed" at first?
B: True. δ=0 for the first one since its initial position is it's amplitude (at t=0) and δ=pi for the second one since sinpi=0, so they always differ in phase by pi (unless that initial angular speed messes that up)
C:True? since this is the definition of a period. Or is it false, again because of the initial angular speed.
D: I don't know how to figure this out, except that the first has one of pi/9rad
 
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  • #2
ω is not the same as the angular velocity in the problem statement. ω is the "velocity" of the phase of your oscillation, the given angular velocity is the change in the position (##\dot \theta##).

B: True. δ=0 for the first one since its initial position is it's amplitude (at t=0) and δ=pi for the second one since sinpi=0, so they always differ in phase by pi (unless that initial angular speed messes that up)
Where does sin(pi) come from now? The second pendulum starts at θ = 0, this is a position.

A and C are true, right.

D: You know the velocity of the second pendulum at a specific point (well, you can calculate it). What is the equation for the velocity?
 
  • #3
A: The equation of motion for both oscillators reads: x = Acos(ωt+δ)
... this is true only under a specific condition. Does that condition hold for both pendulums.

B: After 0.6 seconds they differ in phase by π.
... the only way their relative phase changes with time is if they have different frequencies: do they?

C: After a time of T, they both return to their initial displacement.
... that is the definition of the period, and they must return to their initial displacement after some time ... but are their periods actually the same? (JIC)

D: They both have the same amplitude.
... you have to plug the numbers into the equations.

If A is true, then you can write the two pendulums out as:
pendulum 1: ##x_1=A_1\cos\theta_1:\theta_1=\omega_1t+\delta_1##

... similarly for pendulum 2.

From B and C you can work out ω.

From the initial conditions you should be able to work out if the amplitudes are the same.
 
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Related to Comparing two identical pendulums?

1. What is the purpose of comparing two identical pendulums?

The purpose of comparing two identical pendulums is to understand how they behave and how their properties affect their motion. This can help to validate theories or laws of physics related to pendulums, and to identify any discrepancies between the two pendulums that may provide insights into their behavior.

2. How are the two pendulums compared?

The two pendulums are typically compared by measuring their characteristics, such as length, mass, and amplitude, and observing their motion over a period of time. This can be done by using sensors and data collection software, or by physically measuring and recording the pendulums' behavior.

3. What factors can affect the behavior of the two identical pendulums?

The behavior of the two identical pendulums can be affected by various factors, such as air resistance, friction, and external forces. The materials used to construct the pendulums, as well as their dimensions and initial conditions, can also impact their motion.

4. What are some possible outcomes of comparing two identical pendulums?

Some possible outcomes of comparing two identical pendulums include observing similar or different motion patterns, identifying any discrepancies in their behavior, and validating or challenging existing theories or laws. The data collected from the comparison can also provide insights into the factors that affect the pendulums' behavior.

5. What are the applications of comparing two identical pendulums?

The comparison of two identical pendulums can have various applications in physics, engineering, and other fields. It can help to understand the principles of pendulum motion, design more accurate timekeeping devices, and develop new technologies that rely on pendulum motion, such as seismometers and accelerometers.

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