Solving Pendulum Questions: Calculate Initial PE & KE

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the initial potential energy (PE) and kinetic energy (KE) of a pendulum bob using the formula ∆h = L - Lcosθ, where L represents the length of the pendulum string. Participants are guided to compute the initial PE for various angles and determine the bob's velocity at the bottom of its swing using the diameter of the mass (2 cm) and time measurements. The conversation emphasizes comparing initial PE to KE and assessing energy conservation, addressing the implications of energy loss due to friction and air resistance in real-world scenarios.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic trigonometry and its application in physics.
  • Familiarity with the concepts of potential energy and kinetic energy.
  • Knowledge of simple harmonic motion principles.
  • Ability to interpret experimental data and calculate velocity from time measurements.
NEXT STEPS
  • Learn how to apply the conservation of energy principle in mechanical systems.
  • Study the effects of friction and air resistance on pendulum motion.
  • Explore the derivation and application of the equations for potential and kinetic energy.
  • Investigate methods for calculating experimental error in physics experiments.
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Physics students, educators, and anyone interested in understanding the dynamics of pendulum motion and energy conservation principles.

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Homework Statement

For the conservationofenergy,calculate the starting height of the bob. This is done with some trigonometry and is
∆h=L−Lcosθ
Calculate the initial potential energy of the pendulum for each of your starting angles.Now, using the diameter of the hanging mass (2 cm),and the time it took to pass through the photogate (***), calculate the velocity of the pendulum bob at the bottom of its swing.Using that velocity, calculate the kinetic energy of the pendulum bob.
•Compare the initial potential energy to the kinetic energy of the bob for each angle. Find the percent difference for each. Was energy conserved?
•If you let the pendulum continue to swing,it will eventually slow down and stop. Does this violate the conservation of energy?Why or whynot?


*** THE IMAGE OF THE DATA TABLE CAN BE SEEN AT :https://www.chegg.com/homework-help/questions-and-answers/pendulum-questions-l-calculate-initial-potential-energy-using-data-using-diameter-hanging--q7017035

I ATTACHED THIS IMAGE BELOW SO U DONT HAVE TO CLICK ANY LINK.

Homework Equations



∆h=L−Lcosθ, ... Diameter =2 cm

The Attempt at a Solution


Ok. Well, I am not really sure what L means in terms of my data..and the other questions i don't really know, I am a chem major and don't know anyhting about physics. I need help and guidance with the calculation questions. and the theoretical questions, i don't have any idea lol
 

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##l## is the length of the string. Draw a diagram and you should be able to see why ##\delta h## is calculated using that expression. With the values given in the table, you should be able to compute the change in potential energy of the bob after it is released and reaches the bottom of the swing.

Does any equation come to your mind for calculating the velocity at the bottom? Remember that you have to take experimental error into consideration when using the values in the table.
Hint: This motion can be approximated to simple harmonic motion (the angle is small enough). Try integration.
 

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