Max Velocity of a Pendulum Released from Rest

In summary, a pendulum is released from rest at a distance y = H for the y = 0. The maximum velocity can be calculated using the formula v = sqrt(2gh), assuming there is no air resistance. If the system was in a vacuum, the same formula can be used since assuming no air resistance is equivalent to assuming a vacuum. In the case of an elastic collision between two masses - the first mass having an initial velocity of v1f and the second mass hanging at equilibrium - the final velocities can be simplified using the equations v1f = v2f - sqrt(2gh) and v2f = sqrt(2gh) + v1f.
  • #1
Dustinsfl
2,281
5
A pendulum is released from rest at a distance y = H for the y = 0.

What is the max velocity?
\[
\frac{1}{2}mv^2 = mgh\Rightarrow v = \sqrt{2gh}
\]
where I assumed there was no air resistance.

Would anything change if the system was in a vacuum?
 
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  • #2
Re: pendulum

Looks right to me.

Assuming that there is no air resistance is equivalent to assuming that the system is in a vacuum.
 
  • #3
Re: pendulum

Now suppose the first mass has elastic collision with a second mass hanging at equilibrium.
I have solved for the final velocities using CoM and CoKE but can it be simplifies any further is what I am wondering.
\begin{align}
v_1^f &= v_2^f - \sqrt{2gh}\\
v_2^f &= \sqrt{2gh} + v_1^f
\end{align}
 

FAQ: Max Velocity of a Pendulum Released from Rest

What is the max velocity of a pendulum released from rest?

The max velocity of a pendulum released from rest is dependent on the length of the pendulum, the mass of the pendulum, and the angle at which it is released.

How is the max velocity of a pendulum released from rest calculated?

The max velocity of a pendulum released from rest can be calculated using the formula v = √(2gh), where v is the velocity, g is the acceleration due to gravity, and h is the height of the pendulum.

What factors affect the max velocity of a pendulum released from rest?

The factors that affect the max velocity of a pendulum released from rest include the length of the pendulum, the mass of the pendulum, and the angle at which it is released. Additionally, air resistance and friction can also affect the max velocity.

Can the max velocity of a pendulum released from rest be greater than the initial release velocity?

Yes, it is possible for the max velocity of a pendulum released from rest to be greater than the initial release velocity. This can happen if the pendulum is released at an angle that allows it to gain more speed as it swings back and forth.

Is there a limit to the max velocity of a pendulum released from rest?

According to the formula v = √(2gh), there is no limit to the max velocity of a pendulum released from rest. However, in reality, air resistance and friction will eventually cause the pendulum to lose energy and slow down.

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