When Does a Swing Rider Feel the Lightest?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the physics of a swing rider's experience of weightlessness at different points in the swing's arc. The consensus identifies that the rider feels lightest at the highest point of the swing's trajectory, where the upward velocity counteracts gravitational force. The relationship between weight (w = m(g)) and the forces acting on the rider is crucial, particularly the components of force at an angle θ, which include tangential and centripetal forces. Understanding these dynamics is essential for analyzing the forces in play during the swing motion.

PREREQUISITES
  • Basic understanding of Newton's laws of motion
  • Familiarity with centripetal force concepts
  • Knowledge of gravitational force equations
  • Understanding of vector components in physics
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  • Study the principles of centripetal acceleration in circular motion
  • Explore the effects of gravitational force on moving objects
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Physics students, educators, and anyone interested in understanding the mechanics of motion and forces in a swinging context.

lucky777
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At which point does the person on the swing feel the lightest?
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I'm leaning towards #2 and I'm pretty sure it's #2, but I just need to make sure. I'm not sure if this is correct or not, but I believe the velocity acting on the person (upwards), cancels out the gravity or lowering the effects of gravity, thus weight would be lower [w=m(g)].
 
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At a general angle θ, what would the components of the force? (one is tangential while the other points toward the center of rotation)

When you get that, remember that the resultant of the normal force and the component provide the centripetal force FC
 

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