Finding max force at bottom of a 2.8m decline swinging on a vine?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the maximum force exerted on a vine when Tarzan swings from a height of 2.8 meters. Tarzan's weight is 662 N, and the vine has a breaking point of 1340 N. The key equations used are potential energy (PE = mgh) and kinetic energy (KE = 1/2mv²) to determine the velocity at the lowest point of the swing. The maximum force on the vine occurs when Tarzan reaches the lowest point, requiring the addition of gravitational force to the tension in the vine.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of potential energy (PE = mgh)
  • Familiarity with kinetic energy (KE = 1/2mv²)
  • Basic knowledge of Newton's second law (F = ma)
  • Concept of centripetal acceleration (a = V²/r)
NEXT STEPS
  • Calculate the velocity of Tarzan at the lowest point of the swing using energy conservation principles.
  • Determine the total force on the vine at the lowest point by combining gravitational force and tension.
  • Explore the effects of varying the length of the vine on the maximum force experienced.
  • Investigate the implications of different weights on the maximum force calculation.
USEFUL FOR

Physics students, engineers, and anyone interested in dynamics and forces in swinging motion will benefit from this discussion.

rockchalk1312
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Tarzan, who weighs 662 N, swings from a cliff at the end of a convenient vine that is 21 m long (see the figure). From the top of the cliff to the bottom of the swing, he descends by 2.8 m. The vine will break if the force on it exceeds 1340 N. What would the greatest force on the vine be during the swing?


PE=mgh
KE=1/2mv2


Not sure which equation to use here...

Thank you!
 
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You're looking for the tension in the vine. Draw a diagram showing all the forces and proceed from there.
 
Greatest force is at the largest acceleration.

F=ma
a=\frac{V^2}{r}
F=\frac{mV^2}{r}

∴ Greatest acceleration is at the greatest velocity.

You will need both ##P.E=mgh## and ##K.E=\frac{1}{2}mV^2##
##P.E## to find the energy gained and you will need to rearrange ##K.E## to find the velocity at that energy.

If he decends 2.8m ##h=2.8##

That is the force due to swinging, you must also add on gravity F=mg
 

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