Initial velocity be larger or smaller once its calculated?

[xswtxoj]

If the pendulum is too long and the ball hits the top of the catcher really hard before imbedding itself in the catcher, will intial veloctiy be larger or smaller once its calculated?

 

[tiny-tim]

Hi xswtxoj!

Show us what you've tried, and where you're stuck, and then we'll know how to help!

(erm … and explain the question a little more clearly!)

 

[astrokreng]

The initial velocity of the pendulum will be smaller once it is calculated. This is because the initial velocity is the velocity at the beginning of the pendulum's swing, which is when the ball is released from the top of the pendulum. If the ball hits the top of the catcher really hard and imbeds itself, it will slow down and lose some of its energy. This decrease in energy will result in a smaller initial velocity. However, it is important to note that the initial velocity can only be accurately calculated if all other factors, such as air resistance, are taken into account.