A 1.2-kg mass is attached to the end of a 4.5-m string; the other end of the string is attached to the ceiling (forming a pendulum). The mass is lifted 15 cm (above its lowest point) and then released. The mass freely swings back and forth. The maximum velocity of the mass is

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The maximum velocity of the mass can be found using the principle of conservation of mechanical energy. At the highest point, all the energy is potential, and at the lowest point, it is all kinetic. Using the formula for potential energy (PE = mgh) at the highest point and kinetic energy (KE = 0.5 * m * v^2) at the lowest point and setting them equal (since PE_initial = KE_final), we can solve for v. Given h = 0.15 m, g = 9.8 m/s^2, and m = 1.2 kg, solving for v gives approximately 1.7 m/s.

A 12-Kg Mass Is Attached to the End of a 4