Chapter 9, Problem 45A

A physics teacher demonstrates energy conservation by releasing a heavy pendulum bob, as shown in the sketch, allowing it to swing to and fro. What would happen if, in his exuberance, he gave the bob a slight shove as it left his nose? Explain.

To determine

The result of instructor’s exuberance and a slight shove given to bob as it leaves his nose.

Answer to Problem 45A

If the ball is given small pull or an initial KE, it will return to its starting point with that KE and hit the instructor with same speed.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

A physics demonstrator demonstrates conservation of energy by releasing a heavy weight bob pendulum allowing it to move to and fro.

The oscillation of the bob depends on the length of the bob. When a pendulum is pulled from its equilibrium point, after releasing, it tends to restore its equilibrium position due to presence of gravity.