Calculating the Velocity at the bottom of a Pendulums Trajectory.

In summary, to calculate the velocity at the bottom of a pendulum's trajectory, you can use the equation v = √(2g(1-cosθ)). Velocity is important in understanding pendulum motion as it gives insights into the energy and forces involved. The length of the pendulum does not affect its velocity at the bottom of its trajectory, as it is only dependent on gravity and the angle. The velocity at the bottom of a pendulum's trajectory can be greater than its initial velocity if the pendulum swings to a greater angle. Air resistance can affect the velocity by slowing it down, as it exerts a force opposite to its motion.
  • #1
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Homework Statement


I am trying to calculate the velocity of the pendulum at the bottom of the trajectory.
Mass of the ball - 2.0 kg
Height - .2 m
G - 9.8 m/s^2


Homework Equations


PE = mgh
He mentioned something about the tangential force, I'm really not sure what I should be doing.

The Attempt at a Solution

 
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  • #2
You should be using conservation of energy. Your gravitational potential will be entirely kinetic energy at the bottom of the trajectory.
 

1. How is velocity calculated at the bottom of a pendulum's trajectory?

To calculate the velocity at the bottom of a pendulum's trajectory, you can use the equation v = √(2g(1-cosθ)), where v is the velocity, g is the acceleration due to gravity, and θ is the angle at the bottom of the pendulum's trajectory.

2. Why is velocity important in understanding pendulum motion?

Velocity is important in understanding pendulum motion because it helps us understand how fast the pendulum is moving at different points in its trajectory. This can give us insights into the energy and forces involved in the pendulum's motion.

3. How does the length of the pendulum affect its velocity at the bottom of its trajectory?

The length of the pendulum does not affect its velocity at the bottom of its trajectory. The velocity is only dependent on the acceleration due to gravity and the angle of the pendulum at the bottom of its trajectory.

4. Can the velocity at the bottom of a pendulum's trajectory be greater than its initial velocity?

Yes, the velocity at the bottom of a pendulum's trajectory can be greater than its initial velocity. This occurs when the pendulum swings to a greater angle than its initial angle, resulting in a higher velocity due to the increase in potential energy being converted to kinetic energy.

5. How does air resistance affect the velocity at the bottom of a pendulum's trajectory?

Air resistance can affect the velocity at the bottom of a pendulum's trajectory by slowing it down. This is because air resistance exerts a force on the pendulum that acts opposite to its motion, reducing its kinetic energy and therefore its velocity at the bottom of its trajectory.

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