Question

Consider ninja warrior Michael Torres of mass 72 kg. During his climb, the average coefficient of static friction between Michael's hand/feet and the rubber walls is 0.9. How hard does Michael need to push to hold himself stationary?

Answer 1

To hold himself stationary, Michael Torres needs to exert a force equal to the maximum force of static friction, which can be calculated using the coefficient of static friction and the normal force, we get approximately 634.04 N.

Step-by-step explanation:

To hold himself stationary, Michael Torres needs to exert a force equal to the maximum force of static friction. The maximum force of static friction can be calculated using the formula:

fs = μs * N

Where μs is the coefficient of static friction and N is the normal force. In this case, the normal force is equal to Michael's weight, which can be calculated using the formula:

N = m * g

Substituting the given values, we get:

N = 72 kg * 9.8 m/s^2

= 705.6 N

Now, we can calculate the maximum force of static friction:

fs = 0.9 * 705.6 N

= 634.04 N

Therefore, Michael needs to exert a force of approximately 634.04 N to hold himself stationary.