An ideal simple pendulum is that which has the following properties :
(i) Point mass : The mass of the bob of the simple pendulum should be centered at one point. It is only possible if its shape is zero. Shapeless mass is called point mass. Point mass is imaginary.
(ii) The string through which the point mass is suspended should be weightless and it should not be extended by the pendulum's weight.
(iii) Rigid Base : The base from which it is hanged should be rigid.
(iv) Frictionless : The external and internal frictions will be zero for its various parts.
Here, we discuss an ideal simple pendulum and its nature.
According to the figure a small ball of heavy metal meaning bob is hanged from a thin string. Point O (centre of gravity center of the bob) and point A are the point of oscillation and point of suspension respectively. The distance between these two points is called the working length.
Fig: Simple pendulum
Bob is pulled slightly towards right and then left, it starts oscillating.
Generally, due to loss of energy against the frictional forces, the amplitude reduces slowly.
Fig: Motion of the simple pendulum
