Calculating Superman's Average Force (due in 4 days)

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves calculating the average force acting on Superman as he jumps over a tall building, incorporating concepts from kinematics and dynamics. The scenario includes Superman accelerating from rest to a maximum velocity before following a projectile motion trajectory.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the need to determine initial velocity and acceleration, with one participant noting the downward force due to gravity. There is a question about how to find acceleration after determining final velocity.

Discussion Status

The discussion has progressed with participants sharing calculations and confirming values for velocity and force. There is an indication that one participant has arrived at a numerical answer, but no consensus on the correctness of the approach has been established.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working under the constraints of not using exponential notation and are encouraged to explore the problem without receiving direct answers. The initial conditions and assumptions about motion are being examined.

riggi91
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Homework Statement



Superman (m = 90 kg) jumps over a 78 m tall building by first accelerating from rest to his maximum velocity in 0.004 s. Subsequent to this time, Superman follows normal projectile motion. What is the average force acting on Superman that gives his upward acceleration?. In determining the initial velocity, ignore the distance superman travels during his initial acceleration stage. Also, assume he is jumping straight up. Do not use exponential notation in submitting your answer.

Homework Equations


The equations that I have gathered are:
F=ma
A=v/t
vf^2=vi^2-2ad
vf=vi+at


The Attempt at a Solution



I know that I have to find the Initial velocity first, but in order to do so I need either Time or Acceleration, which I have neither of. All I have found is that the downward force on superman due to gravity at any given time is 882.9N.

Please guide me in the direction to get the answer! Also please don't just give me the answer as I need to learn how to do this for my Physics class!

Thanks!
 
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But you do know the initial velocity:
Superman (m = 90 kg) jumps over a 78 m tall building by first accelerating from rest to his maximum velocity in 0.004 s
... you nee ##\sum F = ma##
 
Duh! I don't know why I didnt realize that before. I also believe I've found vf

I used vf^2=vi^2-2ad and got 39.099 m/s for the vf. If that is correct would i just use a=v/t to find out a?
 
I got the answer. after i found vf i used a=v/t and then just used F=ma and my answer was 879727.5N

Thank you for your help!
 
No worries :)
 

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