In: Physics
If you slide down a rope, it’s possible to create enough thermal energy to burn your hands or your legs where they grip the rope. Suppose a 40 kg child slides down a rope at a playground, descending 2.0 m at a constant speed. How much thermal energy is created as she slides down the rope?
m = 40 kg
h=2m
Thermal energy created = loss in potential energy
= m*g*h
= 40*9.8*2
= 784 J
Answer: 784 J