Mechanics: Vectors and Forces in Two-Dimensions
Vectors and Forces in 2-D: Audio Guided Solution
Problem 18:
Charles Blondin is famous for having crossed the Niagra Falls on an 1100-foot long tight-rope at a height of 160 feet above the gorge. He accomplished the feet several times in a variety of ways – blindfolded, in a sack, carrying his manager on his shoulders, pushing a wheelbarrow and walking on stilts. Suppose the 65-kg Blondin is at the midpoint of the tight-rope and has stopped to cook and eat an omelet. If the tightrope makes an angle of 5° with the horizontal, determine the tension in the rope.
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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