Friction Forces on rock climber

In summary, the rock climber is pushing against the rock with her back and shoes to try and keep from slipping. The magnitude of her push is 480.32 Newtons.
  • #1
mb85
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A 52 kg rock climber is climbing a “chimney” between two rock slabs. The coefficient of static friction between her shoes and the rock is 1.33; between her back and the rock it is 0.89. She has reduced her push against the rock until her back and her shoes are on the verge of slipping. (a) What is the magnitude of her push against the rock? (b) What fraction of her weight is supported by the frictional force on her shoes?

so i figure ... fshoes = Ushoes (N1)
... fback = Uback (N2)
fback and fshoes = W

So... N = mg
= (49)(9.8)
N = 480.2
Since there are two equal normal forces... i divided by 2. So each one is equal to 240.1. Not sure if that is a correct assumption/method.

So with that assumption... fshoes = (1.2)(240.1) = 288.24
fback = (0.8)(240.1) = 192.08

From the formula - fshoes + fback = W So the magnitude is 480.32.?

and I am not sure how to find the weight supported by her shoes.


ALSO,


A slab of mass m1 = 35 kg rests on a frictionless floor, and a block of mass m2 = 10 kg rests on top of the slab. Between block and slab, the coefficient of static friction is 0.68, and the coefficient of kinetic friction is 0.40. The block is pulled by a horizontal force of magnitude 134 N. What are the resulting accelerations (magnitude) of (a) the block and (b) the slab?

how do u figure which one moves? can't both?
i feel as if regardless, both with move left. and there will be 2 accelerations.
im just confused on how to figure out which one would move?


Thanks
 
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  • #2
N is the Force by the surface that is perpendicular to the surface.
It is NOT equal to "mg"! It is a reaction Force, as strong as it needs to be,
in order to keep the other object (her shoes, for example) from sinking in
any farther. Here, the Normal component of the cliff's Force is the unknown.

F_onback + F_onshoes = - W.
Draw the Force vectors on a diagram (they're parallel to the cliff face)
and you'll see that these have to be the friction Forces.
 
  • #3
For problem #2,
DRAW the diagram of Forces that act on the Block. compute their strengths.
Draw the diagram of Forces that act on the slab. compute their strengths.
Sum the Forces to obtain ma for each object.
You should've been doing this since day 1 ...
 

1. What is friction force and how does it affect rock climbers?

Friction force is the resistance that occurs when two surfaces come in contact with each other. In the context of rock climbing, friction force is the force that helps the climber to grip onto the surface of the rock and move upwards. It is essential for maintaining balance and stability while climbing.

2. How does the type of rock affect the friction force for a climber?

The type of rock plays a significant role in determining the amount of friction force a climber experiences. Smooth and polished rocks tend to have less friction force, making it more challenging for climbers to grip onto them. On the other hand, rough and textured rocks provide more friction force, making it easier for climbers to hold onto them.

3. Are there any factors that can influence friction force for a rock climber?

Yes, there are several factors that can affect friction force for a rock climber. These include the texture and angle of the rock surface, the type of climbing shoe being used, the weight and strength of the climber, and environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity.

4. How can a climber increase friction force while climbing?

Climbers can increase friction force by choosing the right type of climbing shoe, using chalk to dry out their hands and improve grip, and using proper techniques such as using their body weight to create friction against the rock. Additionally, wearing clothing with a textured surface can also help increase friction force.

5. Is there a limit to how much friction force a climber can generate?

Yes, there is a limit to how much friction force a climber can generate. This limit is determined by the strength and weight of the climber, as well as the texture and angle of the rock surface. If the friction force exceeds this limit, the climber may slip and fall. It is essential for climbers to maintain a balance between the amount of friction force needed and the force they can generate to avoid accidents.

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