How to Find the Angle of a Child on a Swing at Maximum Height

In summary, the problem involves a child swinging on a swing with ropes of length 2.5 m. The child's velocity at the bottom of their arc is .7 m/s. The goal is to find the angle between the ropes and the vertical when the child is at their maximum height. By using the equation 1/2mVi^2 = mgh, we can find the child's maximum height to be .025 m. However, further steps are needed, such as drawing a free-body diagram, to continue solving the problem.
  • #1
again
1
0
1. Child on a Swing
This child involves a child swinging on a swing supported by ropes of length 2.5 m. The child's velocity at the bottom of his arc is given as .7 m/s. The goal of the problem is to find the angle between the ropes and the vertical when the child is at his maximum height.


Homework Equations


1/2mVi^2 = mgh
divide through by m ---> 1/2Vi^2 = gh


The Attempt at a Solution


In solving this problem, I was able to find the child's maximum height using the above equation. This I found to be .025 m, however, beyond this point I am at a loss for what to do.

Any help would be greatly appreciated!
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
try to draw a free-body diagram .. and go on from there ..
 

1. What is the energy transformation happening in "Child on a Swing"?

The energy transformation happening in "Child on a Swing" is from potential energy to kinetic energy and back to potential energy. When the child is at the highest point on the swing, they have the most potential energy. As they swing down, this potential energy is converted into kinetic energy. Then, as they swing back up, the kinetic energy is converted back into potential energy.

2. How does the mass of the child affect the energy of the swing?

The mass of the child does not directly affect the energy of the swing. However, a heavier child may need more force to push the swing to the same height as a lighter child. This is because the potential energy of the swing is dependent on the height and not the mass of the child.

3. Can the energy of the swing be changed?

Yes, the energy of the swing can be changed. This can be done by changing the height of the swing or by changing the force used to push the swing. The higher the swing is pushed, the more potential energy it will have. The greater the force used to push the swing, the more kinetic energy it will have.

4. What happens to the energy when the child stops swinging?

When the child stops swinging, the energy is dissipated in the form of heat and sound. This is due to the friction between the swing and the air, as well as the friction between the moving parts of the swing. Some of the energy may also be transferred to the ground if the swing comes to a sudden stop.

5. How is the energy of "Child on a Swing" related to the Law of Conservation of Energy?

The Law of Conservation of Energy states that energy cannot be created or destroyed, only transferred or transformed. In the case of "Child on a Swing", the potential energy is transformed into kinetic energy and vice versa. The total amount of energy in the system (swing and child) remains the same, it just changes forms. This demonstrates the principle of energy conservation in action.

Similar threads

  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
8
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
987
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
9
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
911
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
7K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
26
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
16
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
3K
Back
Top