Question

As the pendulum swings from position b to position a, which of the following best describes the motion (neglecting friction)?

1) Simple harmonic motion
2) Circular motion
3) Linear motion
4) Random motion

Answer 1

The motion of a pendulum swinging from one position to another is described as simple harmonic motion, with the restoring force being proportional to the displacement.

Step-by-step explanation:

As a pendulum swings from position b to position a, the motion is best described as simple harmonic motion. This type of motion occurs when the restoring force is directly proportional to the displacement, as is the case with pendulums for small displacements (less than about 15 degrees). The simple pendulum consists of a small mass, known as the pendulum bob, which is attached to a light wire or string and undergoes a back-and-forth swinging motion.

Everyday examples of pendulums include old-fashioned clocks or a child's swing, where the restoring force is gravity, pulling the pendulum back toward its equilibrium position. When friction is neglected, a pendulum swinging back and forth provides a classic example of simple harmonic motion, which has a repetitive, oscillating pattern.