Finding angle of cable when pendulum is at its highest point

In summary, the conversation discusses problem 54, where the difficulty lies in determining the correct forces in the work-force equation without knowing the height. The question of whether to use the formula Δx=radius (times) Δθ or kinematic equations is brought up. The attached photo and notebook paper provide useful information for solving the equation, and a suggestion is made to use simple trigonometry to obtain the angle.
  • #1
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Homework Statement



Please see attached photo. It is problem 54.
My difficulty is that I am not sure if I marked out the correct forces in the work-force equation. Without the height, I can't find the angle. I was going to use the formula: Δx=radius (times) Δθ
However, I'm not even sure this is the right equation to use once I find the height. Should I use kinematic equations instead?

Homework Equations



Attached photo listing useful information for solving equation.

The Attempt at a Solution



Attached photo, written on notebook paper.

Thanks for your help!
 

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  • #2
Draw a vertical line which and label it as the length of your pendulum string, and then draw the bob at the angle θ and then just draw a horizontal line through the bob when at the angle θ.

You can use simple trigs to obtain the angle.
 

FAQ: Finding angle of cable when pendulum is at its highest point

How do you determine the angle of the cable when a pendulum is at its highest point?

To find the angle of the cable, you need to use trigonometric functions. The angle can be calculated using the formula: θ = sin^-1 (L/R), where θ is the angle, L is the length of the pendulum, and R is the distance from the pendulum's point of suspension to the highest point of its swing.

Why is it important to know the angle of the cable in a pendulum at its highest point?

The angle of the cable is crucial because it helps determine the potential energy of the pendulum at its highest point. This energy is then converted into kinetic energy as the pendulum swings back and forth, following the laws of conservation of energy.

Can the angle of the cable change as the pendulum swings?

Yes, the angle of the cable changes as the pendulum swings back and forth. As the pendulum moves away from the highest point, the angle decreases, and as it swings back towards the highest point, the angle increases.

What factors can affect the angle of the cable in a pendulum?

The angle of the cable can be affected by the length of the pendulum, the distance from the point of suspension to the highest point of the swing, and the initial angle at which the pendulum is released.

Is there a maximum angle that the cable can reach in a pendulum?

Yes, there is a maximum angle that the cable can reach in a pendulum. This angle is affected by the length of the pendulum and the initial angle at which it is released. The maximum angle is typically less than 90 degrees, as the pendulum's motion follows a curved path rather than a straight line.

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