Advertisement
Advertisement
Foucault pendulum
noun
, Physics.
- a pendulum that demonstrates the rotation of the earth by exhibiting an apparent change in its plane of oscillation.
Foucault pendulum
- A pendulum suspended from a long wire, set into motion, and sustained in motion over long periods. Due to the axial rotation of the earth, the plane of motion of the pendulum shifts at a rate and direction dependent on its latitude, clockwise in the Northern Hemisphere and counterclockwise in the Southern Hemisphere. At the poles the plane rotates once per day, while at the equator it does not rotate at all.
Discover More
Word History and Origins
Origin of Foucault pendulum1
First recorded in 1850–55; named after J.B.L. Foucault
Advertisement
Word of the Day
[ak-suh-lot-l ]
Meaning and examplesStart each day with the Word of the Day in your inbox!
By clicking "Sign Up", you are accepting Dictionary.com Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policies.
Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement
Browse