A simple pendulum is a weight suspended from a pivot point, without the interference of any other forces or external energy sources. The weight, or bob, is free to swing back and forth under the influence of gravity. The motion of a simple pendulum is periodic, meaning that it repeats itself over a fixed period of time.
The working of a simple pendulum can be explained using the laws of physics, specifically Newton's laws of motion. According to the first law, a body will remain at rest or in motion at a constant velocity unless acted upon by an external force. In the case of a simple pendulum, the external force is gravity, which acts on the bob and causes it to accelerate downward.
The second law of motion states that the rate of change of momentum of a body is directly proportional to the force applied, and occurs in the direction in which the force is applied. In the case of a simple pendulum, the force of gravity is applied downward on the bob, causing it to accelerate downward. This acceleration causes the bob to swing back and forth, gaining momentum as it moves away from the pivot point and losing momentum as it approaches it.
The motion of the simple pendulum is further influenced by the third law of motion, which states that for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. As the bob swings away from the pivot point, it experiences a force in the opposite direction, pulling it back towards the pivot point. This force is known as the restoring force, and it acts to bring the bob back to its equilibrium position.
The period of oscillation of a simple pendulum is determined by its length and the acceleration due to gravity. The longer the length of the pendulum, the longer the period of oscillation. Similarly, the greater the acceleration due to gravity, the shorter the period of oscillation.
In conclusion, the working of a simple pendulum can be explained by the laws of motion, specifically Newton's laws. The motion of the bob is influenced by the force of gravity and the restoring force, and the period of oscillation is determined by the length of the pendulum and the acceleration due to gravity.