- #1
n3w ton
- 19
- 0
Homework Statement
Textbook question: We know that the pendulum will eventually stop swinging. Explain what happens to the mechanical energy of the pendulum system.
Homework Equations
None needed.
The Attempt at a Solution
I know that when the pendulum is first released from rest all its energy is equal to gravtational potential energy and at the bottom of the pendulum (at lowest point) it has its max speed and all its energy has now been transferred into kinetic energy (ET = EK).
In an ideal world this pattern would continue to keep going and never stop. But why does this pendulum actually stop?
My guess: something to do with gravity, air resistance, and friction on the string. Though I can't put it all together to get a GOOD answer.
Please help. Thank you Very much!