Skateboarding Physics: Min Speed, Optimal Ramp Angle & Displacement Vector

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the physics of skateboarding, specifically addressing the minimum speed required for a skateboarder to successfully navigate a ramp, the optimal ramp angle for a smooth landing, and the calculation of the skateboarder's displacement vector, average velocity vector, and average acceleration vector. The minimum speed calculated is 8.8 m/s, derived from the equation for vertical displacement, where the acceleration due to gravity is -4.9 m/s². The optimal ramp angle and the vectors for displacement, average velocity, and average acceleration remain unsolved, prompting further inquiry into the relationship between ramp angle and direction of motion.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of kinematic equations, specifically the equation for vertical displacement: △y = Vi,y △t + ½ ay△t²
  • Basic knowledge of vector components in physics, including displacement and velocity vectors
  • Familiarity with concepts of projectile motion and its applications in real-world scenarios
  • Ability to analyze motion in two dimensions, particularly in relation to angles and trajectories
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the principles of projectile motion to understand the relationship between ramp angle and trajectory
  • Learn how to calculate displacement vectors and average velocity vectors in two-dimensional motion
  • Explore the concept of optimal angles in sports physics, particularly for ramps and jumps
  • Investigate the effects of different ramp angles on landing dynamics and stability
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for physics students, educators, and anyone interested in the mechanics of skateboarding, particularly those studying kinematics and projectile motion in sports applications.

kevin948
Messages
3
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement


(Please check the attached file)

a)What is the minimum speed he requires to make it to the ramp?
b)What would be the best ramp angle so that the skateboarder lands as smoothly as possible?
c)What is the skateboarder’s displacement vector, average velocity vector, and average acceleration vector, between the moment the he leaves the ledge to the moment he reaches the other side?



Homework Equations



△y =Vi,y △t + ½ ay△t²


The Attempt at a Solution



I solved question A

-1 = -4.9△t²

0.45s

4m/0.45s = 8.8m/s

but I don't know how to solve question B and C
 

Attachments

  • 물리2.jpg
    물리2.jpg
    8.8 KB · Views: 351
Physics news on Phys.org
For B, how do you think the ramp angle should relate to his direction of motion? What is the skater's direction of motion?
 

Similar threads

Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
7K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
4K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
3K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K
Replies
8
Views
2K
Replies
5
Views
17K
Replies
6
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
4K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K