The length of a simple pendulum is around 0.86 m and the mass of the particle (that is, the ‘bob’) at the end of the cable is around 0.25 kg. The pendulum is pulled away from its equilibrium position through an angle of 8.55° and released from rest. Suppose that friction can be avoided and that the resultant oscillatory motion is simple harmonic motion.
(i) Determine the angular frequency of the motion?
(ii) By using the position of the bob at its lowest point as the reference level, find out the net mechanical energy of the pendulum as it moves back and forth.
(iii) Determine the speed of bob as it passes via the lowest point of the swing?