Mechanics: Vectors and Forces in Two-Dimensions

Vectors and Forces in 2-D: Audio Guided Solution

Problem 17:

Xavier went rock climbing this past weekend. During one climb through a narrow vertical chimney, he supported his weight by leaning with his back against one wall of the chimney and pushing off the opposite wall with his legs. His left leg made a 26° angle with the horizontal. The coefficient of frcition between his back and the chimney wall is 0.508. Determine the minimum amount of tension which would be required to support the weight of his 86-kg body.

a. Determine the tension in his left leg.
b. Determine the normal force of the chimney wall pushing upon his back.

Audio Guided Solution

Habits of an Effective Problem Solver

  • Read the problem carefully and develop a mental picture of the physical situation. If necessary, sketch a simple diagram of the physical situation to help you visualize it.
  • Identify the known and unknown quantities in an organized manner. Equate given values to the symbols used to represent the corresponding quantity - e.g., m = 1.25 kg, µ = 0.459, vo = 0.0 m/s,  Ø = 41.6º, vf = ???.
  • Use physics formulas and conceptual reasoning to plot a strategy for solving for the unknown quantity.
  • Identify the appropriate formula(s) to use.
  • Perform substitutions and algebraic manipulations in order to solve for the unknown quantity.

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Get more information on the topic of Vectors and Forces in Two-Dimensions at The Physics Classroom Tutorial.

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