Calculating the Minimum Safe Drop Height for a Bungee Jumper

In summary, the conversation is about a lab where the goal is to predict the distance a bungee jumper will fall before coming to rest. The spring constant has already been found and now the minimum safe drop height needs to be determined. The conditions for this include the bottom of the spring being 1.6m above the ground, a string of length Ls being attached to the spring, the bungee jumper being attached to the string, and the jumper having length Lj and mass m. The necessary equations for the solution are F=-kx, Mgh=.5mv^2, and F=ma, but the values for the variables are not provided. The conversation ends with the person asking for help and mentioning that
  • #1
shawn123
1
0

Homework Statement


Our lab was to predict the distance a bungee jumper will fall before coming to rest.
I already found the spring constant
When we have the spring constant we had to find the minimum safe drop height for a bungee jumper before being stopped by the spring. The following conditions apply:
a. the bottom of the spring will be 1.6 m above the ground
b. a string of length Ls will be attached to the spring
c. the bungee jumper will be attached to the string
d. the bungee jumper will have length Lj
e. the bungee jumper will have mass m
We are not provided with these values, but have a make an equation in which we can plug numbers in so we can get the jumper as close as to the ground without killing themselves. The spring is fastened at one end, on the other end there is a string attached and to the end of the string is a bungee jumper. A small mass will represent the jumper. Can anyone help me. Thanks.

Homework Equations


F=-kx
Mgh=.5mv^2
F=ma

The Attempt at a Solution


I used mechanical energy, but don’t really know where to go.
 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
You may need to adjust the length of the jumper to account for the point of connection?
 

Related to Calculating the Minimum Safe Drop Height for a Bungee Jumper

1. How do you calculate the minimum safe drop height for a bungee jumper?

The minimum safe drop height for a bungee jumper can be calculated by taking into account the length and elasticity of the bungee cord, the weight of the jumper, and the desired safety factor. This calculation involves using the formula H = (W x SF) / k, where H is the minimum drop height, W is the weight of the jumper, SF is the safety factor, and k is a constant value representing the elasticity of the bungee cord.

2. What is a safety factor and why is it important in calculating the minimum safe drop height?

A safety factor is a multiplier used in engineering to account for uncertainties and unexpected variables in a calculation. In the case of calculating the minimum safe drop height for a bungee jumper, the safety factor is used to ensure that the bungee cord has enough elasticity to safely support the weight of the jumper. It is important to include a safety factor in the calculation to prevent potential accidents and ensure the safety of the jumper.

3. How does the length of the bungee cord affect the minimum safe drop height?

The length of the bungee cord affects the minimum safe drop height as it determines the amount of elasticity the cord has. A longer bungee cord will have more stretch, allowing for a lower minimum drop height. However, it is important to note that using an excessively long bungee cord can also increase the risk of hitting the ground during the jump, so the length should be carefully considered in the calculation.

4. Can the minimum safe drop height be calculated for any weight and bungee cord length?

Yes, the minimum safe drop height can be calculated for any weight and bungee cord length as long as the weight does not exceed the maximum weight limit of the bungee cord and the length of the bungee cord is appropriate for the desired jump height. It is important to use accurate and up-to-date information in the calculation to ensure the safety of the jumper.

5. Are there any other factors that should be considered when calculating the minimum safe drop height for a bungee jumper?

Yes, in addition to the length and elasticity of the bungee cord, the terrain and environmental conditions should also be taken into account. Factors such as wind speed and direction, temperature, and surface conditions can affect the safety and success of the jump. It is important to assess these factors and make adjustments to the minimum safe drop height calculation accordingly.

Similar threads

Understanding the Bungee Jumper Problem: Energy Transformation and Calculations
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
2
Replies
44
Views
4K
What is the total length of the bungee cord in this bungee jumping problem?
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
26
Views
2K
Derivation of the oscillation period for a vertical mass-spring system
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
9
Views
3K
Final amplitude with damping of bungee cord
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
8
Views
3K
How Does a Bungee Jumper's Energy Change During a Jump?
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
14
Views
5K
Bungee jumping and Conservation of energy
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
2K
Acceleration vs Time Bungee Graph
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
5K
What is the spring constant for the bungee cord used in the given scenario?
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
1K
A Closer Look at Bungee Jumping Physics
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
26
Views
4K
Work/Energy of Two Bungee Jumpers
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
2K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top