Question
A child is swinging back and forth on a swing. Changes in her kinetic and potential energy are happening each moment. At which point, or multiple points, in her swinging would each of these two types of energy be at a maximum? In one to two sentences, describe these points and which type of energy is at a maximum at each point.(2 points)
The potential energy of the child on the swing would be maximum at the highest point of the swing, when she is momentarily motionless at the highest height, and the kinetic energy would be maximum at the lowest point of the swing, when she is moving the fastest.
During the child's swing, her potential energy is at a maximum at the highest points of the swing, when she reaches the highest point on each side. Her kinetic energy, on the other hand, is at a maximum at the lowest point of the swing, when she reaches the bottom of each swing.
To determine the points at which kinetic and potential energy are at a maximum during the swinging motion, we need to understand the relationship between these types of energy and the position and velocity of the child.
1. At the highest point of the swing, when the child momentarily stops moving upwards and starts moving downwards, her potential energy is at a maximum because she is elevated the most. Kinetic energy is at a minimum as she has momentarily come to a halt.
2. At the lowest point of the swing, when the child is moving at maximum speed, her kinetic energy is at a maximum because she has the highest velocity. Potential energy is at a minimum as she is closest to the ground and not elevated.