There's a man hanging on a Tyrolean traverse , we must not let this man die

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the required sag distance (x) for a Tyrolean traverse rope, which spans 23 meters between two trees. The rope must not exceed a tension force of 2.8 kN, considering a safety factor of 10 from its maximum breaking tension of 28 kN. With Christian's mass at 73.0 kg, participants emphasize the need to balance the forces acting on the rope, particularly the gravitational force and the tension components. The challenge lies in determining the angle of sag to relate the rope length to the maximum allowable force.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's second law (F=ma)
  • Basic knowledge of vector components in physics
  • Familiarity with the concept of safety factors in engineering
  • Ability to solve right triangles using trigonometric relationships
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of static equilibrium in physics
  • Learn about tension forces in ropes and cables
  • Explore trigonometric functions and their applications in physics problems
  • Research safety factors in engineering design and their implications
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for physics students, engineering students, and outdoor enthusiasts involved in safety assessments for rope-based activities such as climbing or traversing. It provides insights into the calculations necessary for ensuring safety in high-risk scenarios.

hjr
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Homework Statement


Christian is making a Tyrolean traverse as shown in the figure. That is, he traverses a chasm by stringing a rope between a tree on one side of the chasm and a tree on the opposite side, 23 m away. The rope must sag sufficiently so it won't break. Assume the rope can provide a tension force of up to 28 kN before breaking, and use a "safety factor" of 10 (that is, the rope should only be required to undergo a tension force of 2.8 kN) at the center of the Tyrolean traverse. Determine the distance x that the rope must sag if it is to be within its recommended safety range and Christian's mass is 73.0 kg.

Homework Equations


F=ma


The Attempt at a Solution



So basically the x component is throwing me off. The tension in the rope shouldn't be greater then 2.8kN. I tried to add the two vectors of the tension force so I had one vector pointing straight up and the force of mg pointing down. I believe the acceleration should be zero since you don't want the guy moving. So the force pushing down shouldn't be greater then the upward force. But then isn't the downward force always the same? I thought maybe it had to do something with velocity but the acceleration is constant. Then tried making two triangles with the x component being the base for each. But they give no angles, so I gave up on that idea. Then I tried to relate the length of the rope(they give it for a reason) to the max force allowed but I can't see the connection. I can't jump from the force to the distance. If someone could point me in the right direction I would greatly appreciate it. You can send me a link to a concept I'm missing here, anything that helps.
 

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Once you find the angle, you should be able to find rope length solving the triangle - that's the idea behind the question.
 

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