Physics 5054 · O Level · Motion

Motion — practice question

A learner sets out to find how a pendulum’s period changes with its length. The learner: • sets up the apparatus as illustrated in Fig. 1.1. • secures the pendulum string in place with a clamp. The length of the pendulum is measured from the centre of the pendulum bob to the support point.
(a(i))[1]

Read the distance $l$ on Fig. 1.1 to the closest millimetre. Note your value.

(a(ii))[1]

Fig. 1.1 is drawn to a scale of one-eighth of the full size. Work out the true length $L$ of the pendulum from the support point to the centre of the pendulum bob.

(b(i))[2]

Calculate $T_{10}$, the mean time for 10 full oscillations. Give your answer to 2 significant figures.

(b(ii))[1]

Finish Table 1.1 with the result from (b)(i). You will need to work out $T$ and $T^2$.

(b(iii))[1]

Explain why the student times 10 complete oscillations instead of 1 complete oscillation.

(b(iv))[4]

On the grid in Fig. 1.2, draw a graph of $T^2$ (y-axis) against $L$ (x-axis). Begin both axes at the origin $(0,0)$. Draw the straight line of best fit.

(b(v))[2]

Determine the gradient $G$ of your line. Show your working and mark on the graph the values you use.

(b(vi))[1]

Theory indicates that the gravitational field strength $g$ is given by: $g = \frac{0.39}{G}$. Use this formula together with your value of $G$ in (b)(v) to calculate $g$.

(b(vii))[1]

Compare the value of $g$ you found in (b)(vi) with the accepted value of $10\,\text{N kg}^{-1}$. Say whether the two values are in agreement and explain your answer.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 14-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: Length = 5.2 \pm 0.1 cm

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