The Motion of a Pendulum

Project Brief

 This investigation provides opportunities for Year 11 Mathematics students to use simple trigonometric functions to model the periodic motion of a pendulum using data that is provided, or using data that the students themselves collect using a calculator based ranger. This process of mathematical modelling mirrors that used by mathematicians to model a wide range of natural and artificial phenomena. These models help us to understand these processes, give a sense about how we might control them and allow us to make predictions about them.

There are countless areas in which mathematicians apply their skills, including the study of the environment, biological and medical processes and in the business world.

---

Project Files:

• INTRODUCTION
  >> pendulum_introduction.ppt
  A powerpoint slide show introducing a Directed Investigation on the Motion of a Pendulum.
  
• DIRECTED INVESTIGATION
  >> directed_investigation.doc
  A Directed investigation on the motion of a pendulum
  
• SAMPLE DATA
  >> sample_data.xls
  An Excel file of sample data. This data can be used to do the Directed Investigation when schools do not have a CBR. The sample data can be transferred to lists in a TI or CASIO graphics calculator. The instructions for this data transfer can be obtained via the link DATA TRANSFER INSTRUCTIONS on this home page.
  

Additional Instructions & Software:

• DATA TRANSFER INSTRUCTIONS
  >> transfer_instructions.doc
  A Word file detailing instructions for data transfer:
  Excel to TI graphics calculator
  Excel to CASIO graphics calculator
  
• TI CONNECT SOFTWARE
  >> ticonnect_installation.exe
  This file can be used to install TIConnect on your computer. It can be downloaded free of charge from the internet at  http://www.education.ti.com/
  The TIConnect software enables you to exchange data between your GC and your PC. You can connect your GC to your PC using the USB cable that came with your GC. Be sure to install the TIConnect software before you connect your GC to your PC.
  
• CASIO FA-124 SOFTWARE
  >> install_casio.zip
  The file can be used to install Casio FA-124 on your computer. It can be downloaded free of charge from the internet at   http://world.casio.com/
  The FA-124 software enables you to exchange data between your GC and your PC. You can connect your GC to your PC using the USB cable that came with your GC.

Solutions to the Project:

• DIRECTED INVESTIGATION SOLUTIONS FOR THE SAMPLE DATA
  >> solutions.doc
  A word file providing solutions to the Directed Investigation on the Motion of a Pendulum, for the sample data provided.

Additional Resources:

• MEET DR. RICHARD CLARKE, APPLIED MATHEMATICIAN
  Dr. Richard Clarke, ARC Research Associate at the Adelaide University School of Mathematical Sciences talks about the role of an applied mathematician.
  View the video on Youtube