Final answer:
The speed of a pendulum at the lowest point can be determined by using the conservation of mechanical energy. The formula to calculate the speed is v = sqrt(2gh), where v is the speed, g is the acceleration due to gravity, and h is the height of the pendulum above the lowest point. Using this formula, the speed at the lowest point can be determined.
Step-by-step explanation:
The speed of a pendulum at the lowest point can be determined using the conservation of mechanical energy. At the highest point, the pendulum has potential energy due to its height above the lowest point. As the pendulum swings down, this potential energy is converted into kinetic energy, increasing speed. At the lowest point, all of the potential energy is converted into kinetic energy, so the speed is at its maximum. The formula to calculate the speed of the pendulum at the lowest point is:
v = sqrt(2gh)
Where v is the speed, g is the acceleration due to gravity (9.8 m/s²), and h is the height of the pendulum above the lowest point. In this case, since the pendulum is released from rest, the total mechanical energy (potential energy + kinetic energy) is zero at the highest point, so the height above the lowest point is equal to the length of the pendulum. Therefore, the speed at the lowest point can be calculated using:
v = sqrt(2 * 9.8 * length)
Substituting the given value of length, the speed at the lowest point can be calculated.