Help Understanding Gravitational/Elastic Potential Energy and related

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on understanding gravitational and elastic potential energy in the context of bungee jumping for a Physics assignment. Key equations mentioned include kinetic energy (Ek = 1/2mv²), gravitational potential energy (Ug = mgh), and elastic potential energy (Us = 1/2kx²). The user expresses difficulty due to jumbled equations in the provided resource, which hinders their ability to grasp the topic fully. The request is for clarification on these equations and additional information related to bungee jumping.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics concepts, specifically energy types
  • Familiarity with equations of motion and energy conservation
  • Knowledge of bungee jumping mechanics
  • Ability to interpret and manipulate algebraic equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the principles of energy conservation in bungee jumping
  • Study the derivation and application of the kinetic energy equation
  • Explore the relationship between gravitational potential energy and height
  • Learn about the spring constant and its role in elastic potential energy
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for physics students, educators preparing teaching materials, and anyone interested in the mechanics of bungee jumping and energy transformations.

Pennywise38
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As part of a Physics assignment I have to put together a Power Point Presentation and Worksheet with Solutions which teachs a topic. I got The Physics of Bungee Jumping.


There is a website supplied which was supposed to have everything needed informational wise however due to some issue, the equations are all over the place or jumbled to the point where they are unreadable.


Page 15-18
http://www.ed.gov.nl.ca/edu/sp/sh/sci/phy2204/cur_guide/2204appendixa.pdf

The text which explains the subject references to these equations which I can't see so the entire ressource becomes very hard to use (beside the beginning which is where I found out about the Potential energy types needed and then I looked a bit into them)

Because this is a topic I've never been taught before, it is somewhat difficult to understand what is going on with the equations and therefore the whole topic.

I am asking if anyone can tell me the equations that are missing given the context or provide any other information about Bungee Jumping, hopefully with equations.

It would be a big help so I could really get through this.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
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the useful equations would probably be:

Ek=1/2mv^2, where Ek is kinetic energy, m is mass and. V is velocity
Ug=mgh, where Ug is gravitational potential energy m is mass, g is acceleration due to gravity and h is height
Us=1/2kx^2 where, Us is elastic potential energy, k is spring constant and x is amount of compression/extension of spring.
 

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