Which statement best explains why small-angle oscillations of a simple pendulum can…
PHYSICS · Single correct · A Level · Physics · Further mechanics and thermal physics · Further mechanics and thermal physics
Problem
Which statement best explains why small-angle oscillations of a simple pendulum can be modeled as simple harmonic motion?
(a) Because the component of the gravitational force along the arc is essentially constant for small angles, leading to repetitive motion
(b) Because the period of a pendulum is independent of its amplitude, a characteristic associated with SHM
(c) Because sinθ≈θ for small angles, making the restoring torque proportional to angular displacement
(d) Because mechanical energy is conserved in a pendulum’s motion, so the oscillations repeat in time like SHM