We can solve this using the conservation of
mechanical energy. The pendulum starts with potential energy and converts it
into kinetic energy as it swings to the lowest point.
1. Initial Potential Energy (at the highest
point):
The pendulum starts from rest, so its
initial kinetic energy is zero. The initial potential energy is given by:
where:
(mass of the
pendulum),
(acceleration due
to gravity),
(height from which
the pendulum swings).
Thus, the initial potential energy is:
2. Final Kinetic Energy (at the lowest
point):
At the lowest point of the swing, all the
potential energy is converted into kinetic energy. The kinetic energy at the
lowest point is: