XXIV
square roots of the lengths of the pendulums. Of course in
proportion to the length of the pendulum also the amplitude will
increase in a given time. The pendulum A, being n times
greater than the pendulum B, will traverse in a given time
through a space n times greater. For doing so the pendulum
A wants for one amplitude √n times more time (see law 3 of
a falling body).
3) The substance of the pendulum has no influence upon
the oscillations.
4) The duration of the oscillations of a given pendulum is
inversely as the square root of gravity in the place in which the
oscillations take place. 131.
§. 55. This motion is called os
cillating motion and we call the
path b-F a semioscillation, b-B a
complete or single oscillation, and
the backward and forward motion a
double oscillation.
§ 56. The different cases of the Pendulum.
(a) It is used for measuring time (Law, 1).
Clocks. 135; 144. The oscillations of a pendulum in
fluenced by temperature (136.) and by the force of gravity (the
number of oscillations increases from the equator towards the
poles). 137. Another application of the pendulum we see in the
Metronome, an instrument used for marking the time in practis
ing music. By a bob of lead the pendulum may be shortened
or lengthened, and in consequence of this the oscillations will be
accelerated or retarded just as the beat requires it. The pen
dulum moves a clock work thus producing a regular beat, which
gives the time.
