Pendulum - maximum kinetic energy, maximum potential energy

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the energy transformations in a pendulum system, specifically focusing on kinetic and potential energy at different positions of the pendulum. Participants are exploring the relationship between these energy forms as the pendulum moves through its motion.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the energy states of the pendulum at equilibrium and maximum amplitude, questioning the transfer of energy to the bob and the implications of energy conservation. There is also a consideration of how to calculate energy based on the pendulum's motion.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with some participants confirming initial thoughts about energy states while others are questioning the assumptions made regarding the direction of motion and the calculation of energy. There is no explicit consensus, but guidance on considering changes in height has been provided.

Contextual Notes

Participants are navigating the definitions of equilibrium and the axes used for calculations, indicating a need for clarity on the setup of the problem and the assumptions regarding energy transfer.

jimmy42
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Is it correct to think that a pendulum which is at equilibrium has full kinetic energy? Then at it's maximum amplitude it has full potential energy?

thanks.
 
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Yeah. Thats correct.
 


Is that energy transferred to the bob?
 


When the bob starts off at its initial position, it has gravitational potential energy but no kinetic energy.

When it reaches the bottom ( i wouldn't say equilibrium) it will have max KE.
So yes, there is a CHANGE in the energy.

But the total energy that the bob initially had never changed.
 


So, if a bob has a mass of 10kg and it moves 10m in the x direction is the energy to get it there = mgh= so 10kgx9.81ms^-2x10m = 981J?

Thanks.
 


You will need to calculate the absolute change in height.

Usually we take the vertical axis as y direction, and horizontal as x direction.

So when you say in the x direction do you mean horizontal? Cause if that's what you mean, then it is incorrect. You will have to take the change in height.
 

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