Question

The free end of a simple pendulum is attached to the ceiling of a box. The box is taken to a height and the pendulum is oscillated. When the bob is at its lowest point, the box is released to fall freely. As seen from the box during this period, the bob will
(a) continue its oscillation as before
(b) stop
(c) will go in a circular path
(d) move on a straight line

Answer 1

Answer:

move on a straight line due to gravity .....

Answer 2

The bob will go in a circular path when the box is released at the lowest point of the bob.

Explanation:

• The bob will oscillate at high speed horizontally at its lowest point.  
• Also, there is acceleration due to gravity acting on the bob of the pendulum when a box has been attached to the bob.  
• This acceleration acts downwards.  When the box is released, this acceleration gives torque to the pendulum causing the bob to move in a circular path.