Computer Simulation/Modeling: Bungee Jumping

by Luan Pham

 

Submitted : Fall 2010

 

Bungee jumping is a thrilling exercise which involves leaping form a tall structure or building while the jumper is attached to a large rubber band by his or her ankles.  Physics can provide answers to safety questions involved with bungee jumping such as the behavior of the gravitational forces on the jumper or the properties of the length and strength of the bungee rope itself.  This project considers the law of conversation of energy:

T₁ + V₁ = T₂ + V₂

 

Where T1 is the initial kinetic energy of the jumper and the bungee cord , V1 is the initial gravitational potential energy, T2 is the kinetic energy at a given position, and V2 is the gravitational potential energy at a given position.  The kinetic energy and gravitational potential energy can vary depending on the scenario and positioning of the jumper and bungee cord. 

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