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Writer's picturekeshprad

PhysicsBowl 2016 Q10


10) For this question, we know of two forces that act on a person. We need to optimize force F such that the person can accelerate upward. Let's start by drawing a force diagram.

Where F is applied force, and W is gravitational force

We know that if a person wants to accelerate, the net force upward should be greater than zero. We can set it up like so and solve for F.

Where F[Net] is the net force, F is applied force, and W is gravitational force

This answer makes sense. It tells us that we need to pull upward with a force greater than the weight of the person in order to cause an upward acceleration.


Although by technicality having a force greater than or equal to 2W, choices D and E, would allow the person to accelerate, these choices do not define all magnitudes of F which allow the person to accelerate.


Answer: C

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