1. The problem statement, all variables and given/known data The pendulum bob in Figure 6.11 must circle the rod interrupting its swing, and the string must remain taut at the top of the swing. How far up must the bob be raised before releasing it to accomplish these goals? 2. Relevant equations Potential Energy = mgh Kinetic Energy = 1/2mv^2 mgh = 1/2mv^2 3. The attempt at a solution I'm still unclear with what the question is asking for or how I'm suppose to solve it; though I'm guessing it deals with the conversion of kinetic energy into gravitational potential energy and maximum height. How the rod play into the question, or what the distance from the rod to the pendulum bob means, I've no idea. This sounds awfully similar to a conical pendulum, which a quick wikipedia search showed as pretty complicated. So, how do?