Time period of an oscillating spring

Equipment

stand

bosses x 3

clamps x 3

G-clamp

metre rule

light spring

700 g of slotted masses including hanger

stopwatch

Method

1. Use the G-clamp to secure the base of the stand to a desk.
2. Fix a metre rule in the vertical position using two of the bosses and clamps.
3. Using the other boss and clamp, position a spring near to the top of the stand so the spring hangs vertically down in front of the metre rule.
4. Adjust the mass of the hanger to 700 g, and suspend it from the spring.
5. Remove the 700 g mass to ensure that the spring has not deformed.
6. Suspend the mass from the spring and note the approximate position of the mass once at rest.
7. Ensure that the mass can oscillate up and down without touching the metre rule.
8. Pull the mass down by 3 cm and then release.
9. Once the mass is oscillating, time how long it takes for 10 complete oscillations.
10. Repeat steps 6-8 twice more and take an average.
11. Repeat steps 6-9 for masses of 600 g, 500 g, 400 g, and 300 g.

Risk assessment

hazard	risk	probability	mitigation
heavy equipment	crush injuries	low	position masses away from table edge; use G-clamp to secure stand
spring	sharp wires	low	don't overload the light spring; wear goggles

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