Chaotic Behaviour (Double Pendulum)

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Type of activity: demo

Activity code: Me-020

Description:

Set up as shown in diagram. Adjust 4 leveling feet on metal stand (for the double pendulum. The double double does not have this: clamp it down if it wobbles). Hold pendulum straight up in air and release. If stand wobbles, readjust level on feet. 1. Hold double pendulum arm vertically and release. 2. Observe chaotic movement of white dot. 3. Next place metal dowel into one of the metal grooves on release arm. 4. Repeat same procedure, in same location, and observe motion. Physics Teacher Volume 30, September 1992

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