Momentum of pendulum at its lowest point

In summary, the momentum of a pendulum at its lowest point is zero due to its maximum displacement and zero velocity. The mass of the pendulum affects its momentum at the lowest point, as a larger mass results in a greater momentum. The length of the pendulum does not affect its momentum, but can impact the period of its swing. Changes in mass or velocity, as well as external forces, can cause changes in the momentum of a pendulum at its lowest point. The momentum of a pendulum at its lowest point cannot be negative, as it is always in the positive direction at this point.
  • #1
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A pendulum of length L swings from rest at a starting angle of θ from the vertical. Assume the mass is concentrated at the end of the pendulum; find its momentum at its lowest point.

Please help, thx:)
 
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  • #2
Welcome to PF;
The idea is that you have a go to show us where you get stuck and then we can help.

From what you wrote I cannot tell what to help you with exactly - do you know what a pendulum is? What momentum is? Kinetic energy? Gravitational potential energy? Do you know the expressions for these?
 

1. What is the momentum of a pendulum at its lowest point?

The momentum of a pendulum at its lowest point is zero. This is because at the lowest point, the pendulum is at its maximum displacement, and therefore has no velocity. Momentum is calculated as mass times velocity, so with a velocity of zero, the momentum is also zero.

2. Does the mass of the pendulum affect its momentum at the lowest point?

Yes, the mass of the pendulum does affect its momentum at the lowest point. The momentum of an object is directly proportional to its mass, meaning that a pendulum with a larger mass will have a greater momentum at its lowest point compared to a pendulum with a smaller mass.

3. How does the length of the pendulum affect its momentum at the lowest point?

The length of the pendulum does not affect its momentum at the lowest point. Momentum is not dependent on the length of an object, but rather on its mass and velocity. However, the length of the pendulum does affect the period of its swing, which can impact the momentum at different points in its swing.

4. What factors can cause changes in the momentum of a pendulum at its lowest point?

Changes in the momentum of a pendulum at its lowest point can be caused by changes in its mass or velocity. Additionally, external forces such as air resistance or friction can also affect the momentum of a pendulum at its lowest point.

5. Can the momentum of a pendulum at its lowest point be negative?

No, the momentum of a pendulum at its lowest point cannot be negative. Momentum is a vector quantity, meaning it has both magnitude and direction. At the lowest point of a pendulum's swing, the direction of its velocity is always in the positive direction, so the momentum must also be positive. A negative momentum would indicate a velocity in the opposite direction.

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