Simple Pendulum
Interactive simulation — adjust parameters and watch the visualization update in real time.
Live graphs
How it works
A simple pendulum obeys nonlinear equation θ¨ + (g/L)sinθ = 0. For small angles, sinθ ≈ θ and the motion is simple harmonic with period T ≈ 2π√(L/g). Larger angles increase the period. Damping removes energy over time.
Key equations
Equation of motion:θ¨ + (g/L) sin θ = 0
Small-angle period:T₀ = 2π√(L/g)
Larger amplitudes: period increases; the sidebar uses T ≈ T₀(1 + θ₀²/16 + 11θ₀⁴/3072) with θ₀ in rad (undamped).