Pendulum Motion
Pendulum motion refers to the swinging movement of an object, known as a pendulum, that is attached to a fixed point and swings back and forth under the influence of gravity. This motion is periodic, meaning it repeats at regular intervals, and is characterized by its consistent rhythm. The time it takes for a pendulum to complete one full swing is called the period, which depends on the length of the pendulum and the acceleration due to gravity.
The motion of a pendulum can be described as a combination of potential and kinetic energy. At its highest point, the pendulum has maximum potential energy and minimal kinetic energy. As it swings down, potential energy converts to kinetic energy, reaching maximum kinetic energy at the lowest point of the swing. This interplay of energies allows the pendulum to continue its motion until external forces, like air resistance, gradually slow it down.