FTCE Subject Area Practice Test 2025 – Comprehensive Prep Guide

Question: 1 / 400

In a pendulum, when does the bob possess the greatest potential energy?

At the bottom of the swing

At the center of the arc

When the bob is moving fastest

When the bob is at the top of the arc

The bob of a pendulum possesses the greatest potential energy when it is at the top of the arc. This is due to the fact that potential energy in a gravitational field is related to height. At the top of the swing, the bob has reached its maximum vertical displacement from its lowest point.

As the bob swings up to the highest point, it converts kinetic energy into potential energy; hence, it has the most stored energy due to its height. Conversely, as the bob descends towards the center of the swing or the bottom of the arc, potential energy decreases while kinetic energy increases, reflecting the transformation of energy from one form to another. At the bottom of the swing, the kinetic energy is at its maximum due to the bob's highest speed, but potential energy is at its minimum, which further emphasizes the relationship between height and potential energy in the pendulum's motion.

Get further explanation with Examzify DeepDiveBeta
Next Question

Report this question

Download Florida Teacher Certification Examinations (FTCE) Subject Area Practice Test PDF Study Guide
Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy