1Q20.44 Rolling Pendulum

A spherical bob can roll on a track of the same arc as its swing when suspended by a cord. Comparison of the motion in the two cases shows the effect of the rotational motion in rolling.

A small pool ball hangs freely above a set of three curved wooden tracks. A second pool ball of the same diameter rests on the middle track.

Make pendulum have same arc as rolling ball.

Observe rolling ball have greater speed.

Observe rolling ball have greater speed with small angle.

 

Location: balls B2-4, arc B4-1