Following the experiment for the simple pendulum, one can see that the pendulum’s period of motion changes due to the different lengths of the string but not the weight of the washer. For example, when using two different weights (25 and 50 g) with the string of the same lengths, they moved at about the same speed, finishing a period at the same time. However, if one lengthens or shortens the string, it changes the speed at which the weight moves. A longer string produces a slower period of movement, and shorter strings move the weight quicker, resulting in smaller periods. This means that the length of the string is more important than the weight for determining the speed at which a pendulum moves. This information is necessary when considering pendulums as a part of technology design.
The experiment is prone to error as it is completed in an everyday uncontrolled environment. The main possible factor that affects the pendulum experiment is the way in which one releases the pendulum. It may be difficult for a person to release two weights in the exact same way without using any force. For example, one can throw a pendulum or slow down its movement by holding onto the weight. Therefore, one pendulum may move quicker than another because of human error. Similarly, pendulum construction can be faulty and make one weight move quicker or slower than another if it is fastened in a different way. Finally, outside influences, such as the weather, breathing, movement of the construction, and more, can disturb the pendulum and change the period at which the weights move. If one blows on the pendulum or shakes the table on which the experiment takes place, the result cannot be considered reliable.