Question

In the picture of the pendulum below, which statement is true of the pendulum bob when it is at points C? aThe pendulum has its highest potential energy at point C. bThe pendulum has its highest kinetic energy at point C. cIt has the lowest kinetic energy at points C. dThe potential and kinetic energy are the same at point C.

Answer 1

When analyzing a pendulum's movement, we can consider the states of potential and kinetic energy at various points in its swing.

At point C, which is typically the highest point in the swing of a pendulum, the pendulum bob is momentarily at rest before it begins to swing back down. At this position:

1. Potential Energy: The potential energy (PE) is highest at the highest points of the swing because it is determined by the height above a reference point.
2. Kinetic Energy: The kinetic energy (KE) is lowest at this position because the speed of the bob is zero at the peak of its swing.

Based on this analysis, the correct statement about the pendulum bob at point C is:

a) The pendulum has its highest potential energy at point C.