Question

describing the energy of a pendulum
determine how potential and kinetic energy changes at each position of the pendulum as the ball swings from a to e.
position a:
position b:
position c:
position d:
position e:

Explanation:

• Position A: At the highest point (A), the pendulum has maximum height, so potential energy (PE) is maximum. Kinetic energy (KE) is minimum (almost zero) as velocity is zero.
• Position B: Moving down from A to C, height decreases, so PE decreases. Velocity increases, so KE increases.
• Position C: At the lowest point (C), height is minimum, so PE is minimum. Velocity is maximum, so KE is maximum.
• Position D: Moving up from C to E, height increases, so PE increases. Velocity decreases, so KE decreases.
• Position E: At the highest point (E, same as A in height), PE is maximum (same as A), KE is minimum (almost zero).

Answer:

• Position A: Maximum Potential Energy, Minimum Kinetic Energy
• Position B: Decreasing Potential Energy, Increasing Kinetic Energy
• Position C: Minimum Potential Energy, Maximum Kinetic Energy
• Position D: Increasing Potential Energy, Decreasing Kinetic Energy
• Position E: Maximum Potential Energy, Minimum Kinetic Energy