Is GPE equal to mgh or mgL in a Bungee Jump?

In summary, jbriggs444 was suggesting that you calculate the potential energy of someone jumping from the ground to the bridge deck, then from the bridge deck to the maximum height of the bungee, and finally from the maximum height of the bungee to the ground.
  • #1
oppyykm
3
0
If the person has not yet jumped, is their GPE equal to mgh, where h is the height above the ground, or mgL, the maximum length the bungee rope can stretch?
Thanks
 
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  • #2
Hi oppyykm
welcome to PF

which do you think is correct and why ?

Dave
 
  • #3
I thought it would be the maximum length the bungee rope can stretch, but I'm not really sure. Because if its maximum length is shorter than the height, it doesn't have the potential to fall the full height ever, so therefore it can't have potential equal to height.
 
  • #4
What final result is it that you are trying to calculate? The length to which the bungee ends up stretching?

I would recommend that you perform that calculation three times: Once with the assumption that potential energy is given by mgh where h is measured from the ground under the bridge. Once with the assumption that potential energy is given by mgh where h is measured from the deck of the bridge (and will be negative throughout the drop). Once with the assumption that potential energy is given by mgh where h is measured from the maximum length of the bungee.

Compare to see if the choice makes any difference in the calculated value. Do you think that it will?
 
  • #5
oppyykm said:
If the person has not yet jumped, is their GPE equal to mgh, where h is the height above the ground, or mgL, the maximum length the bungee rope can stretch?
GPE is always equal to mgh, but you are free to define h=0 wherever you like as long as you stay consistent. I would highly recommend doing the exercise jbriggs444 suggested!
 
  • #6
All that ever matters in the end is the difference in PE between two locations, which is what I think jbriggs444 was trying to get at. No matter where you define h = 0 (giving PE = 0 at that location), the difference in PE between (for example) the ground and the bridge deck is the same.
 

FAQ: Is GPE equal to mgh or mgL in a Bungee Jump?

What is gravity potential in a bungee?

Gravity potential in a bungee refers to the potential energy stored in the bungee cord when an object is suspended above the ground due to the force of gravity.

How is gravity potential calculated in a bungee?

Gravity potential in a bungee is calculated by multiplying the mass of the object by the acceleration due to gravity (9.8 m/s²) and the height of the object above the ground.

Why is gravity potential important in bungee jumping?

Gravity potential is important in bungee jumping because it determines the amount of potential energy that is stored in the bungee cord before the jump. This energy is then converted into kinetic energy as the jumper falls, providing the thrilling experience of bouncing up and down.

How does gravity potential affect the safety of a bungee jump?

The amount of gravity potential in a bungee jump can affect the safety of the jump, as a higher potential energy means a greater force and potential for injury upon impact. This is why bungee cords are designed to stretch and absorb the energy, reducing the impact on the jumper.

Can gravity potential be manipulated in a bungee jump?

Gravity potential in a bungee jump can be manipulated by adjusting the height of the jump or the weight of the object. A higher jump or heavier object will result in a greater potential energy, while a lower jump or lighter object will result in a lower potential energy.

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