People lifting themselves with simple fixed pulley

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the feasibility of using a simple fixed pulley system for lifting oneself, specifically addressing the mechanics involved when a person stands on a platform. Participants assert that the physics is sound, provided the weight of the person exceeds that of the platform. A practical demonstration is suggested, including the use of a tree branch for a rope system. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding the forces at play, such as weight and tension, to validate the concept.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics principles, particularly forces and tension.
  • Familiarity with pulley systems and their mechanical advantages.
  • Knowledge of weight calculations and how they affect motion.
  • Basic skills in drawing free-body diagrams to visualize forces.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the mechanics of simple fixed pulley systems and their applications.
  • Learn about free-body diagrams and how to calculate forces acting on objects.
  • Explore practical demonstrations of pulley systems, such as "tree house elevators."
  • Investigate the physics of tension and weight in lifting scenarios.
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Physics students, educators, engineers, and anyone interested in understanding mechanical systems and their practical applications in lifting and movement.

REVIANNA
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I can't convince myself that the situation in this picture is possible in reality though I know the physics works.
I feel that it won't work as the workers are not glued to the platform
can anyone find a demonstration to verify it .please (I'v searched youtube as much as I could)
people lifting themselves with simple fixed pulley (single person will also do)
problems_MIT_rayyan_Physics801_Figures_Pulley_Platform.png
 
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Why would you need glue if there is half the body weight as pressure between the person and the platform?
 
REVIANNA said:
I can't convince myself that the situation in this picture is possible in reality though I know the physics works.
I feel that it won't work as the workers are not glued to the platform
can anyone find a demonstration to verify it .please (I'v searched youtube as much as I could)
people lifting themselves with simple fixed pulley (single person will also do)
problems_MIT_rayyan_Physics801_Figures_Pulley_Platform.png
There's no need to be glued on the platform. Imagine both persons hold their ropes and suddenly put their knees to the breast. The weight of the persons will lift the platform till both "sit" on it. Afterwards they could grab the rope at a point closer to the ceiling, by alternatley moving one hand above the other and keeping the tension in the rope with fixed hand while standing up (if they are physically strong enough).
 
REVIANNA said:
I feel that it won't work as the workers are not glued to the platform
What do you mean exactly by "it won't work"? What do you think will happen, if they are not glued to the platform (assuming they are heavier than the platform)?
 
Since no numbers are provided, in order for it to work, we need to assume the weight of the people is greater than the weight of the platform.
 
You don't even need a platform for this to work.
You can pull yourself up with a rope thrown over a tree branch. You just make a little loop at one end so you put for foot through it and pull the other end of the rope.
Look up "tree house elevator" to see more sophisticated contraptions, with multiple pulleys.
 
nasu said:
You can pull yourself up with a rope thrown over a tree branch. You just make a little loop at one end so you put for foot through it and pull the other end of the rope.
Careful, we don't want to the OP to hang her/himself. A small model with a basket and a weight would suffice.
 
put some numbers into the question. Look at 1 person of mass 70kg (W = 686N) standing on a platform of mass 20kg (weight = 196N)...he pulls with a force of 400N on the rope...can you calculate what is happening? the acceleration? can you draw a diagram showing the forces acting on the person and on the platform and on the rope??
 

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