The formula provided in the image is related to the calculation of gravitational acceleration ($g$) on Earth, based on the properties of a simple pendulum. The formula shown is:

$g = l \left( \frac{2\pi}{T} \right)^2$

where:

• $g$ is the gravitational acceleration.
• $l$ is the length of the pendulum.
• $T$ is the period of the pendulum (the time taken for one complete oscillation).
• $\pi$ is the mathematical constant pi, approximately equal to 3.14159.

Analysis of the Formula

1. Pendulum Motion: This formula is derived from the principles of simple harmonic motion, where the period $T$ of a simple pendulum of length $l$ in a gravitational field with acceleration $g$ is given by: $T = 2\pi \sqrt{\frac{l}{g}}$ By rearranging this formula to solve for $g$, we obtain: $g = \frac{4\pi^2 l}{T^2} = l \left( \frac{2\pi}{T} \right)^2$ which matches the form given in the image.

2. Dependence on Length and Period: According to this formula, $g$ depends directly on the length of the pendulum and inversely on the square of the period. A longer pendulum or a shorter period results in a larger value of gravitational acceleration.

3. Applications: This equation is often used in experiments to measure gravitational acceleration by observing the period of a pendulum of known length.

4. Units: For the formula to work correctly, the length $l$ should be in meters, and the period $T$ in seconds, giving $g$ the units of $\text{m/s}^2$, which is standard for acceleration.

5. Assumptions: This derivation assumes a simple pendulum (a small mass on a string of length $l$) and neglects air resistance and other damping effects.

Would you like further details on any part of this explanation, or do you have any specific questions?

Related Questions

1. How does changing the length of the pendulum affect the gravitational acceleration calculation?
2. What would happen to the calculated $g$ if the period $T$ is measured inaccurately?
3. Can this formula be applied on planets other than Earth?
4. How does this formula relate to the concept of simple harmonic motion?
5. What are the practical limitations of using a pendulum to measure $g$?

Tip

When using a pendulum to measure gravitational acceleration, ensure that the amplitude (swing angle) is small, as large angles introduce nonlinear effects and reduce accuracy.