Calculating Force on Albert in Lightweight Swing

In summary, the conversation discusses your nephew Albert sitting on a lightweight swing while you pull horizontally on him, maintaining an angle theta with the vertical. The homework equations involve Newton's 2nd law for horizontal and vertical force components, as well as deriving an expression to calculate the value of F using given variables. The solution involves drawing a free body diagram and splitting the weight into two components.
  • #1
jeff1982
1
0

Homework Statement


Your nephew Albert sits on a lightweight swing. Albert has a mass m. You pull horizontally on Albert so that the swing rope of length L maintains an angle [itex]\theta[/itex]
with the vertical

Homework Equations


A. Write a Newton's 2nd law equations for the horizontal force components acting on the system.
B. Write a Newton's 2nd law equation for the vertical force components acting on the system.
C. Derive an expression that would allow you to calculate the value of F if you were given m, g, L, and [itex]\theta[/itex]


The Attempt at a Solution

A. F=ma, B. F=mg. C. no clue
 
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  • #2
jeff1982 said:

The Attempt at a Solution

A. F=ma, B. F=mg. C. no clue


Start by drawing the free body diagram with the mass at the angle. Then try splitting the weights into 2 components, one in the direction of the string and one tangential to the mass.
 

1. How do you calculate the force on Albert in a lightweight swing?

The force on Albert in a lightweight swing can be calculated using the formula F = m x a, where F is the force, m is the mass of the swing, and a is the acceleration of the swing. The acceleration can be determined by measuring the change in velocity over time.

2. What is the mass of the swing that needs to be considered in the calculation?

The mass of the swing that needs to be considered in the calculation is the combined mass of Albert and the swing itself. This can be determined by weighing both Albert and the swing on a scale.

3. How does the length of the swing affect the force on Albert?

The length of the swing does not directly affect the force on Albert. However, it can affect the speed and acceleration of the swing, which in turn can impact the force experienced by Albert.

4. Are there any other factors that need to be taken into account when calculating the force on Albert in a lightweight swing?

Yes, there are other factors that can affect the force experienced by Albert in a lightweight swing. These include air resistance, friction, and the angle at which the swing is released.

5. Can the force on Albert be greater than his weight while swinging?

Yes, the force on Albert can be greater than his weight while swinging if the swing is moving at a high enough velocity and experiencing a significant acceleration. This is because the force on Albert is the combination of the force of gravity (his weight) and the force generated by the swing's movement.

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