Question

A thin rod, of length L and negligible mass, that can pivot about one end to rotate in a vertical circle. A heavy ball of mass m is attached to the other end. The rod is pulled aside through an angle and released.
(a)What is the speed of the ball at the lowest point if L = 2.20 m, = 19.0°, and m = 500 kg?
(b) Does the speed increase, decrease, or remain the same if the mass is increased?

Use energy techniques.

I will be happy to critique your thinking on this.