Calculating the Speed of a 4m Ladder Sliding Down a Wall

In summary, the problem involves a ladder that is 4m long and leaning against a vertical wall. The bottom of the ladder is sliding away from the wall at a speed of 30cm/s. The question asks for the rate at which the top of the ladder is sliding down the wall when the bottom of the ladder is 2m from the wall. To solve this problem, the relationship between the distance from the wall of the bottom of the ladder, the height of the top of the ladder, and the length of the ladder must be determined. Drawing a picture and using the Pythagorean theorem can help to make this connection. Simply providing the answer will not help in understanding how to solve the problem.
  • #1
dcgirl16
27
0
a ladder 4m long rests against a vertical wall. If the bottom of the ladder slides away from the wall at a speed of 30cm/s. How quickly is the top of the ladder sliding down the wall when the bottom of the ladder is 2m from the wall.
 
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  • #2
I think homework questions are supposed to be in the homework section (and this is definitely a homework question).

However, your best bet would be to write down any relationship you can find between the distance from the wall of the bottom of the ladder, the height of the top of the ladder, and the length of the ladder
 
  • #3
At least show some work? Have you drawn a picture? Do you see a triangle in the picture? Does the Pythagorean theorem sound like a good way of connecting the various lengths in the picture?
 
  • #4
if i knew how to do this i wouldn't be on this site, yeah it is a hwk question but its a general question that pretty much sums up everything i don't know. its not like I am using this to try and get you to do my hwk for me its so i can understand how to do it.
 
  • #5
dcgirl16 said:
if i knew how to do this i wouldn't be on this site, yeah it is a hwk question but its a general question that pretty much sums up everything i don't know. its not like I am using this to try and get you to do my hwk for me its so i can understand how to do it.

But, if I told you the answer, then you still wouldn't know how to do it would you? Can you answer any of the points that HallsofIvy made?
 

FAQ: Calculating the Speed of a 4m Ladder Sliding Down a Wall

How do I calculate the speed of a 4m ladder sliding down a wall?

To calculate the speed of the ladder, you will need to know the distance it traveled (4m) and the time it took to travel that distance. You can use the formula speed = distance/time to find the speed of the ladder.

What is the acceleration of the ladder as it slides down the wall?

The acceleration of the ladder can be calculated using the formula acceleration = change in velocity/time. Since the ladder starts from rest and ends at a certain speed, the change in velocity would be the final speed of the ladder. Time can be calculated by dividing the distance traveled by the speed.

What factors can affect the speed of the ladder?

The speed of the ladder can be affected by various factors such as the angle of the ladder against the wall, the amount of friction between the ladder and the wall, and the mass of the ladder. It can also be affected by external forces such as air resistance.

Can the speed of the ladder change as it slides down the wall?

Yes, the speed of the ladder can change as it slides down the wall. If there are changes in the factors mentioned above, the speed of the ladder can increase or decrease. Additionally, if there are any external forces acting on the ladder, it can also cause a change in speed.

How can I ensure the accuracy of my speed calculation for the ladder?

To ensure accuracy, it is important to have precise measurements of the distance traveled and the time taken. It is also important to consider all the factors that can affect the speed of the ladder and to use the correct formula for calculation. Using multiple trials and taking an average of the results can also help improve accuracy.

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