Lesson: The Mechanical Energy of a Pendulum

In one complete oscillation of a pendulum, how many times does the pendulum have its peak kinetic energy?

Each of the following diagrams shows a pendulum at different points in its motion. Which diagram shows the point where the pendulum has the most kinetic energy?

A pendulum with a mass of 5.00 kg and a length of 0.800 m has a kinetic energy of 2.60 J when it passes through its equilibrium position. What is the maximum angle to the vertical that the pendulum reaches? Use a value of 9.81 m/s² for the acceleration due to gravity. Give your answer to 3 significant figures.