This project explores the physics of pendulum motion by creating art. Students will construct a simple pendulum, observe its motion, and use it to create dynamic paintings.
If the length of the pendulum string is shortened, then the pendulum will complete more swings in a given time period.
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Cut a piece of string to the desired length.
Poke a small hole in the bottom of a plastic cup.
Tie one end of the string to the cup and the other end to a hook or support.
Place a large sheet of paper on the ground.
Fill the cup with paint.
Pull the pendulum to one side and release it over the paper.
Observe the patterns created as the pendulum swings.
Change the length of the string and repeat the experiment.
Record the time taken for complete swings with different string lengths.
Compare the patterns and swinging times for different setups.
Clean the workspace after the experiment.
The pendulum with a shorter string is expected to complete more swings in a given time, allowing an understanding of how gravity and length affect pendulum motion. Different patterns should be observed in the paintings based on string length.
Length of the pendulum string
Number of swings in a given time
Type of paint, Weight of pendulum, Surface type
Ensure that the paint used is non-toxic and clean up spills promptly to avoid mess.
Explain pendulum motion and its real-world applications.
Showcase the different patterns created with various string lengths.
Discuss how gravity affects the pendulum’s motion.
