Rock climber force diagram and acceleration

In summary, to find the acceleration of the climber, you would use force diagrams for the rock and climber and subtract the two. The acceleration of the rock is equal to the acceleration of the climber. To find the time it takes for the rock to go over the edge, you would use the equation a = distance/time squared and solve for t using the known acceleration and distance.
  • #1
stevo2393
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A 70kg climber is dangling over the edge of an ice cliff. He is roped to a 940kg rock located 51 m from the edge. The ice is frictionless, and the climber starts to accelerate downward.

a) How would you find the acceleration of the climber?

Would you use the force diagrams for the rock and the climber and subtract the two to find the acceleration in the case?


b) How long does it take the rock to go over the edge?

Much thanks
 
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  • #2
a) the force on the rock from the climber is 70 x 9.81 (F = mg). And we know that F = ma. So 70x 9.8 = 940 x a. Solve for a. (the acceleration of the rock is = to the acceleration of the climber.

b) a = distance/time squared. You know a, and distance. Solve for t.
 

1. What is a force diagram in rock climbing?

A force diagram in rock climbing is a visual representation of the forces acting on a climber and their equipment while they are climbing. It shows the direction and magnitude of each force, such as the weight of the climber, the tension in the rope, and the friction between the climber's shoes and the rock.

2. How is acceleration related to rock climbing?

Acceleration is the rate of change of an object's velocity. In rock climbing, acceleration is affected by the direction and magnitude of the forces acting on the climber. For example, if the climber is pulling up on the rope, their acceleration will be upward. If the climber loses their grip and falls, their acceleration will be downward due to the force of gravity.

3. What are the main forces involved in rock climbing?

The main forces involved in rock climbing are the climber's weight, the tension in the rope, and the friction between the climber's shoes and the rock. Other forces that may come into play include wind, air resistance, and the weight of any equipment the climber is carrying.

4. How do force diagrams help in understanding rock climbing?

Force diagrams help in understanding rock climbing by providing a visual representation of the forces involved in the activity. They can help climbers identify potential risks and make decisions about how to distribute their weight and use their equipment to maximize their chances of success. Force diagrams can also be used to analyze the physics of a specific climbing route and help climbers strategize their approach.

5. How can a rock climber use force diagrams to improve their technique?

By studying force diagrams, a rock climber can identify areas where they may be exerting too much or too little force and adjust their technique accordingly. For example, if a climber notices that they are pulling up too hard on the rope, they can work on using more leg strength to push themselves up the rock instead. Force diagrams can also help climbers understand the importance of distributing their weight evenly and using proper body positioning to maintain balance and conserve energy.

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