Question

SIMPLE PENDULUM LAB: is it better to measure the period from the end of the swing or from the center point of the swing?? explain pls

Answer 1

I would argue the end of the swing. The pendulum actually comes to rest for a brief moment before accelerating in the opposite direction. At the center of the swing, the pendulum is moving the fastest. I would imagine that would make it more difficult to accurately time when it was right at the center of its swing.

Answer 2

At the end of the swing, the speed is about zero, so the uncertainty to time the right instant is greater. On the other hand, the uncertainty is reduced when the bob is at full speed.