AZING! Conservation of Energy and Velocity in Tarzan's Swing

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating Tarzan's velocity at the bottom of his swing and at Jane's place using the principles of conservation of energy. The swing is modeled as a frictionless system with a 22m long vine, where the initial angle is 60 degrees and the final angle is 40 degrees. The relevant equation used is the conservation of mechanical energy: PEg = mgyi + 1/2mvi^2 = mgyf + 1/2mvf^2. By determining the change in potential energy, users can find the velocities at both points in the swing.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of potential energy (PE) and kinetic energy (KE)
  • Familiarity with the conservation of mechanical energy principle
  • Basic trigonometry to calculate height differences based on swing angles
  • Ability to manipulate algebraic equations for solving for velocity
NEXT STEPS
  • Learn how to calculate height differences using trigonometric functions in physics problems
  • Study the concept of conservative forces and their implications in energy conservation
  • Explore examples of energy conservation in pendulum motion
  • Investigate the effects of friction on energy conservation in real-world scenarios
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Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on mechanics and energy conservation, as well as educators looking for clear examples of applying conservation principles in problem-solving.

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Homework Statement


Tarzan swings from his tree house over to Janes by hanging on a vine that's 22m long. Assume his swing is frictionless (conservative forces only). The angle between Tarzan's house and the bottom of his swing is 60 degrees, the angle between Jane's house and the bottom of Tarzan's swing is 40 degrees.

What's his velocity at the bottom of his swing?
What's the velocity when he gets to Janes place?


Homework Equations


PEg=mgyi
mgyi+1/2mvi^2=mgyf+1/2mvf^2


The Attempt at a Solution


I attempted to figure it out using examples from notes, but got nowhere.
A very detailed, simple explanation would be great (I really can't figure it out!)
 
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baileya said:

Homework Statement


Tarzan swings from his tree house over to Janes by hanging on a vine that's 22m long. Assume his swing is frictionless (conservative forces only). The angle between Tarzan's house and the bottom of his swing is 60 degrees, the angle between Jane's house and the bottom of Tarzan's swing is 40 degrees.

What's his velocity at the bottom of his swing?
What's the velocity when he gets to Janes place?
Use conservation of energy. What is the difference in potential energy between his tree house and the bottom / Jane's place? Is energy conserved? If so, what form of energy is that difference in potential energy converted to?

AM
 

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