How Does Energy Transform in a Bungee Jump?

In summary, energy transformation in a bungee jump involves the conversion of gravitational potential energy to kinetic energy as the jumper falls. At the highest point, the jumper has maximum potential energy. As they descend, this energy is converted into kinetic energy, peaking just before the bungee cord begins to stretch. Once the cord stretches, kinetic energy is converted back into elastic potential energy, slowing the jumper. Finally, as the jumper rebounds, the elastic potential energy transforms back into kinetic energy, illustrating the continuous cycle of energy transformation throughout the jump.
  • #1
hello478
165
14
Homework Statement
describe changes of energy as a bungee jumper jumps of a cliff with an elastic cord...
Relevant Equations
energy equations
please correct me if im wrong...

at top
highest gpe
ke = 0
elastic energy = 0

upper middle
0=elastic energy
ke < gpe

middle
ke = gpe

lower middle
ke>gpe

bottom
ep = maximum
gpe=ke = 0


rebound
?
 
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  • #2
I kinda' think you're right-ish with what you wrote, but it's hard to say without a much more quantitative statement of the problem (like what is "lower middle"?).

But it also depends on the full statement of the problem. Bungee cords are dissipative, as opposed to non-dissipative springs that are only stretched within their elastic range. Can you say how this would affect the situation?
 
  • #3
berkeman said:
I kinda' think you're right-ish with what you wrote, but it's hard to say without a much more quantitative statement of the problem (like what is "lower middle"?).

But it also depends on the full statement of the problem. Bungee cords are dissipative, as opposed to non-dissipative springs that are only stretched within their elastic range. Can you say how this would affect the situation?
lower middle is a little bit down from the middle

1711746789138.png


also what would happen if cords are dissipative??
 
  • #4
hello478 said:
also what would happen if cords are dissipative??
That was my question to you! :wink:
 
  • #5
berkeman said:
That was my question to you! :wink:
well the answer to this is out of my capabilities... may you please tell me...?👁️👁️
 
  • #6
hello478 said:
well the answer to this is out of my capabilities... may you please tell me...?👁️👁️
How about doing some web research on your own? You have been given what to look for.
 
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  • #7
kuruman said:
How about doing some web research on your own? You have been given what to look for.
yeah i was gonna do that... :bow: haha its so funny and cute lol
 
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  • #8
hello478 said:
what would happen if cords are dissipative??
Start by stating what dissipation means. If you don't know, look it up.
 
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FAQ: How Does Energy Transform in a Bungee Jump?

What types of energy are involved in a bungee jump?

In a bungee jump, the primary types of energy involved are gravitational potential energy, elastic potential energy, and kinetic energy. Gravitational potential energy is highest at the jump's starting point, kinetic energy is highest when the jumper is at maximum speed, and elastic potential energy is highest when the bungee cord is fully stretched.

How does gravitational potential energy change during a bungee jump?

Gravitational potential energy decreases as the jumper falls from the platform. At the highest point, the jumper has maximum gravitational potential energy. As they descend, this energy is converted into kinetic energy and, eventually, into elastic potential energy as the bungee cord stretches.

What role does kinetic energy play in a bungee jump?

Kinetic energy is the energy of motion. As the jumper falls, gravitational potential energy is converted into kinetic energy, causing the jumper to accelerate downwards. The kinetic energy is highest just before the bungee cord starts to stretch significantly and slow the jumper down.

How is elastic potential energy generated in a bungee jump?

Elastic potential energy is generated as the bungee cord stretches. As the jumper reaches the lowest point of the jump, the kinetic energy is converted into elastic potential energy. The cord's elasticity stores this energy, which then helps to pull the jumper back upwards.

How does the energy transformation ensure the safety of the jumper?

The transformation of energy ensures the safety of the jumper by gradually converting kinetic energy into elastic potential energy, which slows down the jumper's descent and eventually reverses it. The bungee cord's elasticity ensures that the forces are managed smoothly, reducing the risk of sudden stops or jolts that could cause injury.

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