Consider the diagram of a pendulum's motion shown above. A pendulum can be used to model the change from potential energy to kinetic energy and back to potential energy. According to the diagram, where are energy conversions taking place?

Question

Responses
A point A
B point B
C point C
D Both points A and C

Answer 1

In a pendulum's motion, energy conversions take place as it moves between potential energy and kinetic energy.

• At point A, the pendulum is at its highest point, where it has maximum potential energy and minimal kinetic energy. Here, potential energy is at its peak.
• As it swings down to point B, potential energy converts into kinetic energy, reaching maximum kinetic energy at the lowest point.
• At point C, as the pendulum rises again, kinetic energy converts back into potential energy.

Based on this understanding, the energy conversions occur at:

• Point A (potential energy to kinetic energy as it moves down).
• Point B (kinetic energy to potential energy as it moves up).
• Point C (potential energy increases again).

Considering all the energy conversions that take place during the motion of the pendulum, the correct answer would be:

D) Both points A and C (because energy conversions from kinetic to potential energy occur at both points A and C).