Hammer Throw Homework: Find Force Applied by Athlete

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In summary, the athlete applies a force of 1702 N to the grip just before releasing the hammer. This is calculated by using the formula F=mv^2/r and taking into account the vertical and horizontal components of the hammer's motion. The mistake in the attempt at a solution was neglecting the fact that the hammer is released 1 meter above the ground, resulting in an incorrect calculation of the time taken for flight. Once this is corrected, the correct values are obtained for velocity and force.
  • #1
sona1177
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Homework Statement



An athlete whirls a 4.00 kg hammer six or seven times around and then releases it. ALthough the purpose of whirling it around several times is to increase the hammer's speed, assume that just before the hammer is released, it moves at constant speed along a circular arc of radius 1.7 m. At the instant she releases the hammer, it is 1.0 m above the ground and its velocity is directed 40 degrees above the horizontal. The hammer lands a horizontal distance of 74.0 m away. What force does the athlete apply to the grip just before she releases it? ignore air resistance.

Homework Equations



Force = mv^2/r
Kinematics:
Vf - Vi=at
Change in horizontal displacement = horizontal velocity * t

The Attempt at a Solution


I tried finding the time when the hammer reaches it's highest point, so the Vf would be zero. This equation is for the vertical (y direction)
Vf - Vi =at
vsintheta/a =t

So the total time is the time it takes to get to its highest point * 2
2vsintheta/a=Total time

Then plugging into displacement equation:
change in X=(Vx)i * T so:
vcostheta * 2vsintheta/a
solving for v=27.1 m/s.

Netforce =mv^2/r= 4.00 * (27.1)^2/1.7 m= 1728 N

My book gets 26.9 m/s for the velocity and then 1702 N for the Force. What am I doing wrong?! :(
 
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  • #2
What is the actual question?
 
  • #3
Without seeing the actual question, this is going to be difficult, but a different value of g? Incorrect conversion of units?
 
  • #4
sjb-2812 said:
Without seeing the actual question, this is going to be difficult, but a different value of g? Incorrect conversion of units?

Sorry! FOr some reason, the question didn't show up the first time.
 
  • #5
Sorry! For some reason, the question didn't show up the first time.
 
  • #6
For one, you seem to be neglecting the fact it's released 1 metre above the ground, so the time taken for flight is not twice the time it takes to reach a maximum height.
 
  • #7
sjb-2812 said:
For one, you seem to be neglecting the fact it's released 1 metre above the ground, so the time taken for flight is not twice the time it takes to reach a maximum height.

Thank you for reminding me of that!

After quite a bit of algebra, I got it!
 

1. What is the purpose of "Hammer Throw Homework"?

The purpose of "Hammer Throw Homework" is to determine the force applied by an athlete during the hammer throw event in track and field. This is an important measurement in understanding the athlete's performance and technique.

2. How is the force applied by the athlete calculated?

The force applied by the athlete is calculated using the equation F=ma, where F is the force, m is the mass of the hammer, and a is the acceleration of the hammer. The acceleration can be determined using the equation a=v/t, where v is the velocity of the hammer and t is the time it takes for the hammer to travel a certain distance.

3. What is the typical force applied by an athlete during a hammer throw?

The force applied by an athlete during a hammer throw can vary greatly depending on the individual's strength, technique, and other factors. However, on average, the force applied by a male athlete can range from 800 to 1200 pounds, while a female athlete can range from 400 to 700 pounds.

4. How does the force applied by an athlete impact their performance in the hammer throw event?

The force applied by an athlete is a crucial factor in their performance in the hammer throw event. A higher force will result in a longer distance traveled by the hammer, potentially leading to a better overall performance. Additionally, proper technique and timing are also important in maximizing the force applied by the athlete.

5. Are there any safety precautions that should be taken when calculating the force applied by an athlete in the hammer throw?

Yes, there are safety precautions that should be taken when calculating the force applied by an athlete in the hammer throw. It is important to have a safe and clear area for the athlete to perform the throw, and proper protective gear should be worn at all times. It is also important to carefully handle the hammer and follow proper throwing techniques to avoid any injuries.

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