Kater's Reversible Pendulum

Product Code : LSK-AM-11097

Kater's Reversible Pendulum (SKU LSK-AM-11097) is a compound pendulum that can swing from either of two knife edges; when the periods about both edges are made equal, the distance between the edges gives the equivalent simple pendulum length and hence the acceleration due to gravity. It is a classic B.Sc. and engineering physics practical. Science Lab Supplies turns out this pendulum at its Plot 448, HSIIDC Industrial Area works in Saha, Ambala, India, and supplies colleges, schools, contractors and distributors without a middleman.

Specifications

The pendulum is a 120 x 1.2 cm brass bar with pointed ends, carrying two sets of adjustable knife edges plus large and small brass weights. Two similar hardwood weights are included, and the set is completed with a cast iron wall bracket from which the knife edges swing.

Applications and Experiments for Kater's Pendulum

Kater's pendulum is used to measure g accurately without needing the position of the centre of gravity. Students adjust the knife edges and weights until the time periods about both edges agree, then use the edge separation. It is a standard B.Sc. physics and first-year engineering physics experiment on compound pendulums.

• B.Sc. physics: determining g with Kater's reversible pendulum.
• Showing the interchangeability of the centres of suspension and oscillation.
• Engineering physics: compound pendulum theory and radius of gyration.

Standard Scope of Supply

The standard set includes the 120 cm brass bar with two sets of adjustable knife edges, the large and small brass weights, two similar hardwood weights and the cast iron wall bracket. The stainless steel and chrome-plated steel rod versions, and the 52 inch stand, are ordered as separate options.

Packing, MOQ and Lead Time

Tell us whether you need a single pendulum or several for a practical batch, and which rod version you prefer. The quotation then lists packing, delivery time and price for that quantity, and the stand or other physics lab equipment in India can be priced alongside it.

As the holder of an Importer-Exporter Code, Science Lab Supplies is able to ship to buyers in the Philippines, Nepal, Bangladesh, Zambia, Rwanda and South Africa. Questions go to the contact page; items can be gathered in the enquiry cart; the lab tender page explains tender supply.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Kater's pendulum called reversible?
It has two knife edges and can be hung from either one. When the periods about the two edges are equal, the distance between them equals the length of the equivalent simple pendulum, which gives g directly.

Is a stand included?
The standard set comes with a cast iron wall bracket. A stand about 52 inches high, suitable for all versions, is available as an option if you prefer not to fix the pendulum to a wall.

Which rod versions can be ordered?
Besides the brass bar model, the pendulum is available with a stainless steel rod and brass weights, or with a chrome-plated steel rod. Name the version in your enquiry so the quotation matches it.

Does Science Lab Supplies manufacture Kater's pendulum?
Yes. The pendulum and its bracket are made in the company's factory at Saha, Ambala, India, and you deal with the manufacturer from enquiry through to dispatch.

Related Pendulums and Rotation Apparatus

These items share the oscillation and rotational dynamics part of a physics practical list. They add a pendulum for moment of inertia, a torsional pendulum, a flywheel and a simple pendulum bob set, so a college mechanics lab can build a complete set of experiments from one quotation.

• Bifilar Pendulum — cast iron plate hung on two strings.
• Torsion Pendulum — torsional oscillation of a brass disc.
• Fly Wheel — cast iron wheel on ball bearings for moment of inertia.
• Six-Metal Pendulum Bob Set — bobs for simple pendulum work.

Browse the full Applied Mechanics range or all physics lab equipment.

Last updated: 25 September 2026