Solving the Pendulum Problem: An Overview

[tapeworm]

Homework Statement

I attached a picture of the problem given. In my physics class we never work with numbers we always work with variables.

Here is a link as well.
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a133/TOmaynardOL/IMG_0001-1.jpg

Homework Equations

I have yet to tackle this problem, but I am thinking about using the total work equations. (kinetic, potential, work due to spring etc)

The Attempt at a Solution

As stated above, not yet done, but working on an approach before I go head first going about it all wrong.


Thanks in advance!

 

[alphysicist]

Hi tapeworm,

Homework Statement

I attached a picture of the problem given. In my physics class we never work with numbers we always work with variables.

Here is a link as well.
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a133/TOmaynardOL/IMG_0001-1.jpg

Homework Equations

I have yet to tackle this problem, but I am thinking about using the total work equations. (kinetic, potential, work due to spring etc)

Using energy relationships sounds like a good idea; also, you might consider a force diagram at the point where the string goes slack.

 

[tapeworm]

Im stuck, any suggestions? (when string goes slack) (projectile motion?)

 

[alphysicist]

Im stuck, any suggestions? (when string goes slack) (projectile motion?)

That looks right to me; after the string becomes slack, the only force acting on the particle is gravity so it is in free fall, and you can treat it as projectile motion.