I think this problem would be easier when you draw a simple diagram of the problem like this:
In order to calculate the gravitational potential energy, we need the value of the height (h).
As we know the length (L) equals to 5.2 meters and angle (α) equsl to 35.0˚, by using trigonometry, we can solve for the value of y (which would help us to find height).
cos(α) = (adjacent)/(hypotenuse) = (y)/(L)
y = Lcos(a) = (5.2)cos(35˚) = 4.26m
h = L - y = 5.2 - 4.26 = 0.94m.
As the formula for gravitational potential energy is mgh, now, we can calculate GPE.
Ug = mgh = (23)(10)(0.94) = 216J.
Hence, the gravitational potential energyy of the child at the moment she is released is 216J.
Hi,
Thank you for your question.
I think this problem would be easier when you draw a simple diagram of the problem like this:
In order to calculate the gravitational potential energy, we need the value of the height (h).
As we know the length (L) equals to 5.2 meters and angle (α) equsl to 35.0˚, by using trigonometry, we can solve for the value of y (which would help us to find height).
cos(α) = (adjacent)/(hypotenuse) = (y)/(L)
y = Lcos(a) = (5.2)cos(35˚) = 4.26m
h = L - y = 5.2 - 4.26 = 0.94m.
As the formula for gravitational potential energy is mgh, now, we can calculate GPE.
Ug = mgh = (23)(10)(0.94) = 216J.
Hence, the gravitational potential energyy of the child at the moment she is released is 216J.