What are the Maximum Speeds of a Pendulum with Attached Mass?

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The discussion focuses on calculating the maximum speeds of a pendulum with an attached mass, given specific height and length parameters. The maximum speed in the x-direction is derived using conservation of energy, resulting in the formula v = sqrt(2gh), which occurs at the lowest point of the swing. The challenge lies in determining the maximum speed in the y-direction, as it is not straightforward due to the pendulum not reaching θ = π/2. Participants suggest deriving expressions for potential energy as a function of the angle θ to facilitate this calculation. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding the relationship between potential energy, kinetic energy, and the pendulum's motion.
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Homework Statement


A pendulum of mass "m" reaches a height "h" , while the length of the pendulum is R. If the R = 262 cm and h = 136 cm: (a) calculate the max speed in the x-direction.
(b) calculate the max speed in the y direction.


Homework Equations


K = 1/2(m)(v)^2.
U = mgh.
Vector components.

The Attempt at a Solution


Calculating the max speed in the x direction is grand, it obtains a maximum value at the bottom of the arc so using conservation of energy you can calculate it to be v = sqrt(2gh). This is due to the vector components of the pendulum's velocity being v = vcos(θ)x + vsin(θ)y. The x-component obtains a max value when cos(θ) = 1 which occurs at θ = 0 (i.e. the bottom of the arc). Wouldn't the y-component then obtain a max value when θ = pi/2? This angle is never actually reached due to the bob only being raised through a height "h".
So calculating the max velocity in the y is a little trickier. Could somebody give me some advice on what to do next? I'll attach a picture of the diagram.
 
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You should be able to write down an expression for the potential energy of the mass as a function of ##\theta##. Using it, you can derive an expression for v as a function of ##\theta##.
 
vela said:
You should be able to write down an expression for the potential energy of the mass as a function of ##\theta##. Using it, you can derive an expression for v as a function of ##\theta##.

I'm not given θ though. Is there enough information given to find it?
 
##\theta## is a variable that tells you where the pendulum is. It changes with time. Did you mean ##\theta_0##, the initial value of ##\theta##? You are, in fact, given enough information to find it, but I'm not sure why you'd need it.
 
Ok, ok. I see what you're saying now. Misunderstood your first reply. Thanks!
 
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