Physics

To solve this, we will use the principle of conservation of mechanical energy. The total mechanical energy (sum of potential and kinetic energy) in the pendulum system remains constant because we are neglecting air resistance and friction.

 

Calculate the Initial Potential Energy

At the highest point, the bob has potential energy and no kinetic energy (since it is released from rest). The height from which the bob is released can be found using the length of the pendulum and the angle .

 

The height can be calculated as:

Since , we get:

So the potential energy at the highest point is: