- #1
mancity
- 26
- 2
- Homework Statement
- Which of the following is true regarding the restoring force on a pendulum?
I. The force is constant and dependent on the mass of the pendulum bob.
II. The force is always in the same direction.
III. The force is proportional to the distance from the rest point.
IV. The force is always directed toward the rest point.
- Relevant Equations
- n/a (conceptual problem)
I put the answer as (IV) but that happens to be wrong (or maybe it was only one of the multiple correct answers). Here is my reasoning:
I. the force is dependent on mass, but isn't always constant.
II. It's not always in the same direction, it points towards the rest point. Consider a point at top/ almost near the bottom. they won't be in the same direction
III. I believe it is proportional to the angle, not the distance.
IV. I'm pretty sure this is true, as intuitively that's what a restoring force does
Can someone help me as to why this answer of (IV) is wrong, and help guide me towards the correct answer(s)? Thanks
I. the force is dependent on mass, but isn't always constant.
II. It's not always in the same direction, it points towards the rest point. Consider a point at top/ almost near the bottom. they won't be in the same direction
III. I believe it is proportional to the angle, not the distance.
IV. I'm pretty sure this is true, as intuitively that's what a restoring force does
Can someone help me as to why this answer of (IV) is wrong, and help guide me towards the correct answer(s)? Thanks