Pendulum Motion Interactive Simulation

A simple pendulum's small-angle period is T = 2π√(L/g): a longer string swings more slowly, and the same pendulum swings more slowly on the Moon. Mass does not affect the period. At larger amplitudes, the live formula applies the standard finite-angle correction C(θ₀), so the period increases slightly instead of incorrectly staying constant. Students can change length and gravity and compare what happens. Use it for physics inquiry with Grades 3–4, Middle School, and High School on a projector or student device.

Standards: NGSS 3-PS2-2

• How a longer string makes each swing take longer
• Why the same pendulum swings more slowly on the Moon
• Why mass does not change the period
• Why amplitude barely matters for small swings but lengthens the period near 45°
• Reading the square-root relationship and amplitude correction from the live formula

1. 1Predict how changing length will affect the period, then test the prediction.
2. 2Use evidence from the live calculation and visual to explain the result.

Questions teachers ask