Sam1234
Dec3-09, 10:45 AM
1. The problem statement, all variables and given/known data
Bungee jumpers use an elastic rope to halt their fall when they are just a short distance from the ground. Using the idea of stored energy, explain whether heavy jumpers should use a shorter or longer length of rope than lighter jumpers.
2. Relevant equations
W=mg
strain energy = 1/2*k*x
3. The attempt at a solution
The work here is done my the weight of the jumper. We have W=mg. Assume that k is constant for a rope, we have that F=mg=k*Delta x ==> Delta x is larger when m is larger, so the jumper might hight the ground. He should use a shorter rope.
This is how i would answer the question, but it doesn't use the concept of stored energy and I was hoping someone could help me with that.
Bungee jumpers use an elastic rope to halt their fall when they are just a short distance from the ground. Using the idea of stored energy, explain whether heavy jumpers should use a shorter or longer length of rope than lighter jumpers.
2. Relevant equations
W=mg
strain energy = 1/2*k*x
3. The attempt at a solution
The work here is done my the weight of the jumper. We have W=mg. Assume that k is constant for a rope, we have that F=mg=k*Delta x ==> Delta x is larger when m is larger, so the jumper might hight the ground. He should use a shorter rope.
This is how i would answer the question, but it doesn't use the concept of stored energy and I was hoping someone could help me with that.