Rock climber elastic rope problem

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    Elastic Rock Rope
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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the analysis of forces experienced by two rock climbers, Bill and Karen, during a fall while using different types of ropes. Karen uses a dynamic rope, which stretches more, resulting in her experiencing a force of 13 times her weight after a 2.0m fall. In contrast, Bill's static rope only stretches 30cm, leading to a force of 8.7 times his weight. Consequently, Karen is less likely to be injured due to the elastic properties of her rope.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's laws of motion
  • Familiarity with concepts of force and acceleration
  • Knowledge of dynamic versus static ropes in climbing
  • Basic physics equations related to free fall and force calculations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of dynamic and static rope mechanics in climbing
  • Learn about calculating forces in free fall scenarios
  • Explore the physics of elastic potential energy in climbing gear
  • Investigate safety standards and recommendations for climbing equipment
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for rock climbers, physics students, and safety equipment manufacturers interested in understanding the implications of rope elasticity on climber safety.

hewhoeatspie
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SOLVED

Homework Statement


Two rock climbers, Bill and Karen, use safety ropes of similar length. Karen's rope is more elastic, called a dynamic rope by climbers. Bill has a static rope, not recommended for safety purposes in pro climbing. Karn falls freely about 2.0m and then the rope stops her over a distance of 1.0m. (a) Estimate, assuming that the force is constant, how large a force she will feel from the rope. (Express the result in multiples of her weight.) (b) In a similar fall, Bill's rope stretches by 30cm only. How many times his weight will the his weight will the rope pull on him? Which climber is more likely to be hurt?

Homework Equations


(Not entirely sure)
d=g(0.5)t^2
a=v/t

The Attempt at a Solution


d=g(0.5)t^2
1.0=9.8(0.5)t^2 = t=0.45
(I used a simulation to get that something that falls for 2m will be falling at a velocity of 6.2 m/s...I'm not the best at physics.)
v=6.2m/s
a=(-6.2m/s)/0.45 = a=-13m/s^2
F=Frope-Fg
ma=Frope-Fg
Frope=ma-Fg
Frope=m(-13m/s^2)-Fg
?

That that's where I got stumped. I'm sorry if I didn't provide enough information, or if it was jumbled, I'm new here.

I haven't even tried the second half...

EDIT: Nevermind, I got some help and solved it.
 
Last edited:
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a) Karen will feel a force of 13 times her weight.b) Bill will feel a force of 8.7 times his weight. Since Karen's rope is more elastic, she is less likely to be hurt.
 

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