What Determines the Acceleration Direction in Pendulum Motion?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on determining the direction of acceleration in pendulum motion, specifically at moments 0 and 10 when the pendulum is released from a 45-degree angle. Participants emphasize the importance of resolving the weight into components, with one component directed towards the center of rotation. The average velocity is represented by green arrows in the motion diagram, which aids in visualizing the pendulum's motion. Key concepts include circular motion and the relationship between velocity and acceleration in this context.

PREREQUISITES
  • Circular Motion principles
  • Understanding of acceleration and its direction
  • Basic trigonometry for resolving forces
  • Knowledge of pendulum dynamics
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the effects of gravitational force on pendulum motion
  • Learn how to resolve forces into components in physics problems
  • Explore the concept of centripetal acceleration in circular motion
  • Investigate the relationship between velocity and acceleration in oscillatory systems
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on mechanics and pendulum dynamics, as well as educators seeking to enhance their understanding of circular motion concepts.

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Homework Statement



The motion diagram shown in the figure represents a pendulum released from rest at an angle of 45 from the vertical. The dots in the motion diagram represent the positions of the pendulum bob at eleven moments separated by equal time intervals. The green arrows represent the average velocity between adjacent dots. Also given is a "compass rose" in which directions are labeled with the letters of the alphabet.

pendulum.jpg

Note: The letters in the diagram correspond to the directions.

How can I find the direction of the acceleration of the object at moments 0 and 10?


2. Relevant topics

Circular Motion
Acceleration and direction of object in motion



The Attempt at a Solution



First of all, I am having trouble find the velocity of said moments. Can someone help with this?
 
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resolve the weight into components when it is at an angle θ. One should point in the towards the center.
 
Anymore tips?
Still can't figure it out. :/
 
Lemniscate said:
Anymore tips?
Still can't figure it out. :/

ok at point 0, draw the weight downwards. Resolve the weight now. One component points away from the centre of rotation.
 

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