Examining Harmonic Motion in TeachSpin’s Torsional Oscillator (TO1-A)

TeachSpin’s Torsional Oscillator (TO1-A) was used to conduct a variety of experiments related to harmonic motion. Various aspects of this were investigated, including the phase relationship between angular position and angular velocity, the dependence of the period of oscillation on the moment of inertia by adding brass quadrants, and the independence of tension on period of oscillation by adjusting the torsion constant of the wire. This device can be used for further experiments including magnetic torque, damping, and driven oscillations.