Question

The type of energy possessed by a simple pendulum when it is at the mean position, ideally is:

• A. Potential energy
• B. Potential and Kinetic
• C. Kinetic energy
• D. Zero

Answer 1

The correct option is (C) Kinetic energy

$E_T=KE+PE$

$atmeanpostion:E_T={KE}_{max}+0\left(assumingidealsituation\right)$

$so{E}_T={KE}_{max}$

The mean position of the pendulum is its lowest point. Now we know that energy will be conserved because of the law of conservation of energy. This means that at the extreme position, the pendulum will have maximum potential energy. As the pendulum swings down, its potential energy will decrease and it's kinetic will increase. So if it is at the mean position all the potential energy will be converted into kinetic energy. (Assuming the SHM preforms motion under ideal condition and no PE is imparted on the body at mean position.