Swings and pendulums

From: Carman Gentile (cgpiano@webtv.net)
Date: Fri Apr 13 2001 - 23:18:38 PDT


  This is regarding the swings found on playgrounds.

 As a kid, I was able to sit on a swing and "pump" myself up to the
maximum arc the chain length would allow.

 Can you explain the physics of how the rider of a swing is able to
self-propel it? Is there a maximum number of degrees of arc that a
rider can pump up to?

  Can you direct me to any web sites that explain the physics of swings?

 I thank you in advance.

Carman Gentile
Eureka, CA



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