## When is a Bungee Jumper’s Acceleration Max?
Bungee jumping is an exhilarating activity that involves jumping from a great height with an elastic cord attached to the ankles. The cord stretches as the jumper falls, and then recoils, pulling the jumper back up. The jumper’s acceleration is greatest at the moment when the cord is fully stretched.
**Factors that Affect Acceleration**
The acceleration of a bungee jumper is determined by several factors, including:
* **Mass:** A heavier jumper will have greater inertia, and therefore less acceleration.
* **Height:** The greater the height from which the jumper falls, the greater the acceleration.
* **Cord elasticity:** A more elastic cord will stretch more, and therefore result in greater acceleration.
* **Air resistance:** Air resistance will slow down the jumper’s acceleration.
**Calculating Acceleration**
The acceleration of a bungee jumper can be calculated using the following formula:
“`
a = g – (k / m) * x
“`
Where:
* *a* is the acceleration
* *g* is the acceleration due to gravity (9.8 m/s虏)
* *k* is the spring constant of the elastic cord
* *m* is the jumper’s mass
* *x* is the distance the cord is stretched
**Maximum Acceleration**
The bungee jumper’s acceleration is greatest when the cord is fully stretched. This occurs when the jumper’s velocity is zero. At this point, the only force acting on the jumper is gravity. Therefore, the acceleration is equal to:
“`
a = g
“`
For a typical bungee jump, the acceleration is about 9.8 m/s虏. This means that the jumper will experience a force of about 98 N for every kilogram of body mass.
**Safety Precautions**
Bungee jumping is a safe activity when it is done properly. However, there are some safety precautions that should be taken, including:
* **Inspecting the equipment:** Before jumping, the elastic cord and other equipment should be inspected for any damage.
* **Wearing a helmet:** A helmet should be worn to protect the head in case of a fall.
* **Jumping from a safe height:** The jump should be made from a height that is appropriate for the jumper’s experience and weight.
* **Getting proper training:** First-time jumpers should get training from a qualified instructor.
By following these safety precautions, bungee jumping can be a safe and enjoyable experience.
### Conclusion
The acceleration of a bungee jumper is greatest when the cord is fully stretched. This occurs when the jumper’s velocity is zero. At this point, the only force acting on the jumper is gravity. For a typical bungee jump, the acceleration is about 9.8 m/s虏.