The Pendulum Equation's Dark Secret

The Pendulum Equation's Dark Secret
physics-memes, pendulum-memes, approximation-memes, mathematics-memes, oscillation-memes | ScienceHumor.io

When someone asks about pendulum period, physicists start with the simple formula T = 2π√(L/g). But when pushed about large angle oscillations? That's when the truth comes out - that horrifying infinite series expansion that makes students cry and calculators overheat! 😱

The simple formula only works for small angles (under ~5°), where sin(θ) ≈ θ. Beyond that, you need that monster equation with infinite summation to be mathematically honest. It's like ordering a "simple" coffee and getting handed a 17-ingredient frappuccino with extra calculus!

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