Firefighter Sliding Down Pole: Magnitudes & Directions of Forces

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A firefighter weighing 712 N slides down a pole with a downward acceleration of 3.00 m/s^2, indicating that forces are acting on him. The upward force from the pole and the downward gravitational force combine to create a net force, which can be calculated using Newton's second law. The net force acting on the firefighter is derived from the difference between the gravitational force and the force exerted by the pole. The upward force from the pole is determined to be 494 N, while the downward force remains equal to the gravitational force of 712 N. Understanding these forces is essential for analyzing the firefighter's motion on the pole.
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A firefighter with a weight of 712 N slides down a vertical pole with an acceleration of 3.00 m/s^2, directed downward. What are the magnitudes and directions of the vertical forces (a) on the firefighter from the pole and (b) on the pole from the firefighter?? I think the magnitudes would be the same, but other than that I don't know. If you've followed my other threads, you'll know I'm pressed for time, but you'll also know I'm here to learn. Thanks!
 
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what is the force pulling him down?

What is the net force?

Can you find the force of the pole?
 
The force pulling him down? Gravity, at -9.8 m/s^2, right?
As for the net force, or the force of the pole, I'm not sure.
 
physics newb said:
The force pulling him down? Gravity, at -9.8 m/s^2, right?
As for the net force, or the force of the pole, I'm not sure.
he's sliding down the pole with acceleration with 3m/s^2 right?

is this the acceleration due to gravity? No... that means some force is opposing gravity right? What is the net acceleration? Net means the acceleration that is actually happening after all factors are taken into play.
 
So are you saying you would add gravity and the 3.00 m/s^2?
 
What force of gravity acts on the person? Hint: It's given!

What must the net force be on the person? Hint: Use Newton's 2nd law.

The upward force from the pole and the downward force of gravity act together to provide the net force. Use that fact to figure out the upward force from the pole.
 
Is the firefighter's actual weight the force of gravity that acts on him, 712 N?

I happen to know the answer is 494 N up, and 494 N down. Now, how do I get to this answer?
 
physics newb said:
Is the firefighter's actual weight the force of gravity that acts on him, 712 N?
Yes.

I happen to know the answer is 494 N up, and 494 N down. Now, how do I get to this answer?
By answering the questions in my last post and doing what I suggested.
 

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