Simple (supposedly) pendulum with unknown length and kinetic energy

In summary, the conversation discusses a problem involving a pendulum with a 60 g bob and an unknown length of cord. The angle between the cord and the vertical is given by the equation \Theta = (0.0800 radian) cos[(4.43 radian / s.) t + \phi]. The length of the pendulum is related to the angular frequency of 4.3 rad/s. The maximum kinetic energy of the pendulum can be found by determining the point at which the speed is highest. Google can be a helpful resource for understanding pendulum systems.
  • #1
VinnyCee
489
0
Please help, if a 60 g bob at the end of a cord (unknown length) of negligable mass and the angle [tex]\Theta = (0.0800 radian) cos[(4.43 radian / s.) t + \phi][/tex] <---- Angle between cord and the vertical.

What are
a) the pendulum's length?

b) it's maximum kinetic energy?

Please help, the prof did not go over any of this type of problem.
 
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  • #2
The 4.3 rad/s is the angular frequency which is related to the length of the pendulum. Can you take it from there?
 
  • #3
  • #4
Ok, I gto part a) but not part b). Please help :smile:

a) 0.494 meters

But how do I relate that to find the x_max?
 
  • #5
The kinetic energy will be highest when speed is highest. At what point is the speed of the pendulum highest? (If by x_max, you mean the highest point the pendulum reaches, that is irrelevant.)
 

1. What is a simple pendulum?

A simple pendulum is a weight suspended from a fixed point that is free to swing back and forth under the influence of gravity.

2. What is the significance of unknown length in a simple pendulum?

The length of a simple pendulum is a crucial factor in determining its period, or the time it takes to complete one swing. An unknown length means that the period cannot be accurately calculated without further experimentation or measurements.

3. How does kinetic energy play a role in a simple pendulum?

Kinetic energy is the energy an object possesses due to its motion. In a simple pendulum, kinetic energy is constantly changing as the pendulum swings back and forth between potential energy (at the highest point of the swing) and kinetic energy (at the lowest point of the swing).

4. How can the length of a simple pendulum be determined?

The length of a simple pendulum can be determined by measuring the period of the pendulum at different lengths and using a formula to find the relationship between length and period. Alternatively, the length can also be determined by measuring the angle of displacement and using trigonometric functions.

5. What is the formula for calculating the period of a simple pendulum?

The formula for calculating the period of a simple pendulum is T = 2π√(L/g), where T is the period, L is the length of the pendulum, and g is the acceleration due to gravity. However, this formula assumes a small angle of displacement and does not take into account air resistance or friction.

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