Describe the energy changes in the 4 stages of a bungee jump - at the top, in freefall, when the cord is stretching and at the bottom

There are 3 forms of energy during a bungee jump, kinetic (KE = 0.5mv^2), gravitational potential (GPE = mgh) and elastic potential (EPE = 0.5kx^2). Energy is conserved throughout, and it's assumed none is lost as heat due to air resistance. At the top the rope is slack, velocity = 0 and so all of the energy is in the form of gravitational potential. In freefall, the rope is still slack so EPE = 0. KE is increasing with the acceleration due to gravity and GPE is decreasing as height reduces. As the cord stretches EPE increases. KE will continue to rise briefly before falling as velocity could continue to increase if the acceleration due to gravity is initially greater than the acceleration from the bungee cord. GPE will continue to decrease as the height falls. Finally at the bottom GPE is at a minimum, KE = 0 and EPE is at a maximum.

The key thing throughout this problem is to take the variable out of each equation (v for KE, x for EPE and h for GPE) and thing about their magnitude at each point relative to the other points.

Answered by Felix E. Physics tutor

30517 Views

See similar Physics A Level tutors

Related Physics A Level answers

All answers ▸

What are the main differences between magnetic and electric fields?


If a wire loop moves at constant speed into a region where there is a magnetic field, why is a current induced in the wire?


What is magnetism?


When catching a ball, a cricketer moves his hands for a short distance in the direction of travel of the ball as it makes contact with his hands. Explain why this technique results in less force being exerted on the cricketer's hands


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences