Swing pendulum and the hypnotic waves

Here’s one for the physics geeks. For this to work you have to resist the urge to make a Newton’s Cradle. Instead you need your pendulum cut so the weights are on different lengths of cord. The next step is figuring out a way to set all the weights off at once.

Turns out that a plank of wood is a good and hi-tech solution to the “all-at-once” problem. The view from the side of the pendulum is surprisingly complex. It’s a reminder why we’re told patterns can be found in all sorts of complex situations.