Max Velocity of a Pendulum Released from Rest

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SUMMARY

The maximum velocity of a pendulum released from rest at height H is calculated using the formula v = √(2gh), where g represents the acceleration due to gravity. This calculation assumes no air resistance, which is equivalent to the system being in a vacuum. The discussion also explores the scenario of an elastic collision between two masses, with the final velocities derived from conservation of momentum (CoM) and conservation of kinetic energy (CoKE). The equations v1^f = v2^f - √(2gh) and v2^f = √(2gh) + v1^f are presented for further analysis.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of classical mechanics principles, specifically energy conservation.
  • Familiarity with pendulum motion and its equations.
  • Knowledge of elastic collisions and their governing equations.
  • Basic algebra for manipulating equations and solving for variables.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of energy conservation in mechanical systems.
  • Learn about the dynamics of pendulum motion and its mathematical modeling.
  • Explore elastic collision theory and its applications in physics.
  • Investigate advanced topics in classical mechanics, such as non-linear dynamics.
USEFUL FOR

Physics students, educators, and anyone interested in classical mechanics, particularly those studying pendulum dynamics and collision theory.

Dustinsfl
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A pendulum is released from rest at a distance y = H for the y = 0.

What is the max velocity?
\[
\frac{1}{2}mv^2 = mgh\Rightarrow v = \sqrt{2gh}
\]
where I assumed there was no air resistance.

Would anything change if the system was in a vacuum?
 
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Re: pendulum

Looks right to me.

Assuming that there is no air resistance is equivalent to assuming that the system is in a vacuum.
 
Re: pendulum

Now suppose the first mass has elastic collision with a second mass hanging at equilibrium.
I have solved for the final velocities using CoM and CoKE but can it be simplifies any further is what I am wondering.
\begin{align}
v_1^f &= v_2^f - \sqrt{2gh}\\
v_2^f &= \sqrt{2gh} + v_1^f
\end{align}
 

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