well, because the pendulum is heavy, and is attached only on a tiny string at one point, causing only a little friction, it can swing easily for days. for practical reasons a magnetic ring is added, which maintains the amplitude of the swings. it is practical, because if we want Foucault pendulum work, it cannot rotate or oscillate in other directions, so swinging must be carefully started. maintaining the swings by a magnet can avoid the daily routine of starting the pendulum.
does this thing ever stop?
it seems that it would slow to a rest...
cool video, i am trying to understand this stuff..
aloha
downwindspiral 3 years ago
well, because the pendulum is heavy, and is attached only on a tiny string at one point, causing only a little friction, it can swing easily for days. for practical reasons a magnetic ring is added, which maintains the amplitude of the swings. it is practical, because if we want Foucault pendulum work, it cannot rotate or oscillate in other directions, so swinging must be carefully started. maintaining the swings by a magnet can avoid the daily routine of starting the pendulum.
undokat 3 years ago