Math Problem Statement

The time it takes a pendulum to swing back and forth is dependent on the length of the pendulum. The formula for this is P = 2π √(L/32), where P is the time in seconds it takes the pendulum to swing back and forth, L is the length in feet of the pendulum, and 32 represents the force due to gravity. Explain how the formula can be used to determine the length of the pendulum if the time of the swing is known.

Solution

The question involves a pendulum's period formula:

P=2πL32P = 2\pi \sqrt{\frac{L}{32}}

where:

  • PP is the period (time in seconds for the pendulum to swing back and forth),
  • LL is the pendulum's length,
  • 3232 represents the gravitational constant factor in this context.

The task is to explain how to solve for LL given a value of PP, and identify the correct sequence of algebraic steps among the provided options.

To isolate LL, you would follow these steps:

  1. Square both sides to eliminate the square root: P2=(2π)2L32P^2 = (2\pi)^2 \frac{L}{32}
  2. Divide both sides by (2π)2(2\pi)^2 to isolate L32\frac{L}{32}: P2(2π)2=L32\frac{P^2}{(2\pi)^2} = \frac{L}{32}
  3. Multiply both sides by 32 to solve for LL: L=32P2(2π)2L = \frac{32 \cdot P^2}{(2\pi)^2}

Based on these steps, the correct answer should be one that follows this pattern: squaring both sides first, then dividing by (2π)2(2\pi)^2, and finally multiplying by 32.

Would you like more details, or do you have any specific questions?


Related Questions

  1. What is the formula for the period of a simple pendulum and what factors affect it?
  2. Why is the gravitational constant represented as 32 in this equation?
  3. How does changing the length LL of a pendulum affect its period PP?
  4. What is the significance of squaring both sides in equations with square roots?
  5. How can you rearrange other physics formulas to isolate specific variables?

Tip

When isolating variables in square-root equations, squaring both sides is usually the first step to eliminate the root, making it easier to work with the remaining terms.

Ask a new question for Free

By Image

Drop file here or Click Here to upload

Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Algebra
Square Root Equations
Pendulum Period

Formulas

P = 2π √(L/32)

Theorems

Properties of Square Roots
Multiplication and Division in Equations

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-11