Physics Problem: Rearranging Formulas
1. Key Definitions and Formulas
Before solving the problem, it is essential to understand the variables involved in the formula for a simple pendulum:
- Period (\(T\)): The time required for one complete cycle of oscillation (back and forth). It is typically measured in seconds (\(s\)).
- Length (\(L\)): The distance from the pivot point to the center of mass of the pendulum bob. It is typically measured in meters (\(m\)).
- Acceleration due to Gravity (\(g\)): The constant acceleration exerted by gravity on a free-falling object. On Earth, this is approximately \(9.81 \, m/s^2\).
- The Pendulum Formula: \(\(T = 2\pi \sqrt{\frac{L}{g}}\)\)
2. Solving the Problem
Task: Rearrange the equation \(T = 2\pi \sqrt{\frac{L}{g}}\) to solve for \(g\).
Step-by-Step Derivation:
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Start with the original formula: \(\(T = 2\pi \sqrt{\frac{L}{g}}\)\)
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Divide both sides by \(2\pi\) to isolate the square root: \(\(\frac{T}{2\pi} = \sqrt{\frac{L}{g}}\)\)
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Square both sides of the equation to remove the square root: \(\(\left(\frac{T}{2\pi}\right)^2 = \frac{L}{g}\)\)
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Distribute the square to the numerator and denominator: \(\(\frac{T^2}{4\pi^2} = \frac{L}{g}\)\)
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Multiply both sides by \(g\) to move it out of the denominator: \(\(g \cdot \frac{T^2}{4\pi^2} = L\)\)
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Multiply both sides by \(\frac{4\pi^2}{T^2}\) (or divide by \(\frac{T^2}{4\pi^2}\)) to isolate \(g\): \(\(g = \frac{4\pi^2 L}{T^2}\)\)
Final Answer:
The rearranged formula for the acceleration due to gravity is: \(\(g = \frac{4\pi^2 L}{T^2}\)\)