Final answer:
The best method to descend a long steep downgrade is to maintain control, leveraging gravity in a manner that requires less energy compared to climbing. Understanding the physics of forces such as gravity is crucial for explaining why descending can be accomplished more rapidly.
Step-by-step explanation:
On a long steep downgrade, the best method of descending is to employ a controlled and steady approach. This strategy mitigates the risk of acceleration due to gravity and prevents loss of control. When dealing with a steep incline, whether it be a slope or a staircase, it is important to understand the forces at play. In physics, this involves considering the vector forces, such as the force of gravity acting upon the person or object descending the slope.
An arrow of magnitude 833 N pointing straight down would represent the force of gravity acting on an object. In contrast, while descending, a person can often do so at a faster rate than climbing because descending requires less energy and muscle power. The body relies more on controlling the descent using gravitational force, which is fundamentally different from the process required for climbing, where the muscles must generate enough force against gravity to propel the person upward.