The Pendulum
In this activity you will investigate the properties of a simple pendulum. By measuring the period and length of the line, you will be able to determine the acceleration of gravity!
This is the equipment you will need:

The lab handout

download the .pdf version of the handout

A 90-degree agle clamp

Ring Stand

Cross bar

Stop Watch

1 meter of string

Set of slotted masses

mass hangar

The apparatus should look like this when set up. Make the pendulum line as long as possible, with the mass 'pendulum bob' as close to the lab top as possible. Make sure the cross-bar does not extend over the edge of the lab table as this can lead to injury to the unwary!
Tie the upper end of the line like this. Your pendulum will pivot at the knot if you don't use too great an arc of swing. A swing arc of about 40 cm. is enough.
A short video clip showing the apparatus in motion.