Gravitational Potential Energy of a Child in a Swing: Ropes Horizontal"

AI Thread Summary
To find the gravitational potential energy of a 180 N child in a swing with 1.80 m long ropes when the ropes are horizontal, the height of the child relative to the lowest position must be determined. The potential energy can be calculated using the child's weight and the vertical height, which is equal to the length of the ropes since the swing is horizontal. The energy conservation equation is not applicable here as the velocity is not provided. The focus should be on the relationship between weight, height, and gravitational potential energy. Understanding these concepts is crucial for solving the problem effectively.
aaronb
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Homework Statement

A 180 N child is in a swing that is attached to ropes 1.80 m long. Find the gravitational potential energy of the child-Earth system relative to the child's lowest position at the following times.

(a) when the ropes are horizontal

Homework Equations



Kf+Ugf=Ki+Ugi

The Attempt at a Solution


I am confused on how to set up the equation
 
Last edited:
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it just ask you how to find the potential which can be known by the weight of the child and the length of the ropes.

it doesn't tell you the velocity while the ropes are horizontal, so you can't set up the energy-conservation equation.
 

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