Q.Consider a simple pendulum having a bob attached to a string that oscilates under the action of the force of gravity. Suppose that the time period of oscillation of the simple pendulum depends on its length (l), the mass of the bob (m) and acceleration due to gravity (g). Using the method of dimensions, derive the expression for the time period. OR Suppose the magnitude of the centripetal force (F) that acts on an object moving uniformly in a circle depends upon the mass (m), velocity
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Start your 14-day free trial to unlock the full solution →Dimensional analysis gives T = k sqrt(l/g) — the bob's mass cannot appear, matching T = 2 pi sqrt(l/g).
We assume the period T depends on length l, mass m, and acceleration due to gravity g as a power-law product:
T = k l^a m^b g^c
where k is a dimensionless constant and a, b, c are powers to be found.
Step 1: Write the dimensions of each quantity.
[T] = [T^1] (time)
[l] = [L^1]
[m] = [M^1]
[g] = [L^1 T^-2]
Step 2: Substitute into the assumed relation and equate dimensions on both sides.
[T^1] = [L^1]^a [M^1]^b [L^1 T^-2]^c = L^(a+c) M^b T^(-2c)
Step 3: Match the powers of each base dimension (M, L, T) on both sides.
Power of M: 0 = b => b = 0
Power of T: 1 = -2c => c = -1/2
Power of L: 0 = a + c => a = -c = 1/2
Step 4: Substitute back.
T = k l^(1/2) m^0 g^(-1/2) = k sqrt(l/g)
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