Question

A pendulum with bob of mass m is oscillating on either side from its resting position A between the extremes B and C at a vertical height h and A. what is the kinetic energy K and potential energy U when the pendulum is at position (i) A, (ii) B and (iii) C?

Answer 1

(a) At position A, pendulum has maximum kinetic energy and its potential energy is zero at its resting position. Hence, K=mgh and U= 0.

(b) At B, kinetic energy decreases and potential energy increases. Hence, K= 0 and U=mgh

(c) At C also, kinetic energy K= 0 and potential energy U=mgh.