Solve the Energy Homework Problem: Tarzan's Speed on a 30m Vine

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To solve the energy problem regarding Tarzan's swing, it's essential to correctly identify the height (h) in the energy equation 1/2mv^2 = mgh. The height should be determined by the vertical drop from the starting point to the lowest point of the swing, which involves using trigonometric functions to find the correct elevation based on the vine's length and the angle. The user initially misapplied the cosine and sine functions but later clarified that the height should be calculated from the vertical position. After adjusting the calculations, the user successfully found the correct height and resolved the issue. This discussion emphasizes the importance of understanding the geometry of the problem in energy conservation scenarios.
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i started to do this engery problem we got for homework but when i tried to solve it i got the wrong answer. could someone please tell me how to begin this problem?

Tarzan swings on a 30m long vine initially inclined at an angle of 37 degree with the vertical. What is his speed at the bottom of the swing if he starts from rest??
 
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What's your opinion??Post your work...Read the "sticky".We don't nobody' s homework.We only help if people get stuck.But you haven't even started.

Daniel.
 
i did start it i used the equation 1/2mv^2=mgh but then since their is an angle i tried to do it that way but i got the wrong answer. i don't5 expect anyone to do my homework or else it would be useless to do.
 
The equation u've written is principially good,but it needs "polishing".Think/analyze the geometry of the problem and try to see which is "h" u need in that equation and its connection with the length and the angle the problem speaks about.

Daniel.
 
i tried using 30cos37 but that doesn't work so then i tried using 30sin37 and that doesn't work either so i wonder if i am doing something wrong
 
That "h" is the difference in heigh/elevation between the lowest point of the circular trajectory and the upper one.Assume that the "0" (origin) for the potential energy is chosen to be the lowest point of the trajectory.

Daniel.
 
so are u saying i should subtract what i get from the cos/sin from the 30?
 
thx that did work! Now could u help me on my other post please :biggrin:
 
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