THE PHYSICS OF ROCK

CLIMBING
Why do I rock climb?
Freedom of the Hills
Fun & challenging
The art, skill, & technique
What is rock climbing?
How does it work?
How is physics applied?
Special equipment
Anchors force vectors
How is physics applied?
Belaying works on friction
How is physics applied?
Rappelling works on friction
How is physics applied?
Climbing must balance forces on body

Supporting Force

Force of Gravity
How is physics applied?
Supporting forces friction & normal force

Normal Force

Friction
 How is physics applied?
Technique body position and holds
determine
Normal Force forces Normal Force

Friction
Friction

Friction Force of Gravity Friction Force of Gravity

Normal Force
Normal Force
How is physics applied?
Advanced techniques
Friction

Normal Force

Friction

Force of Gravity Normal Force

Lead Climbing
Requires more skill & knowledge
Placing gear / rope drag
Fall factor / rope stretch
Conclusion
If you know the physics behind rock
climbing
Gives you better technique
Keeps you safer
so you can truly enjoy the freedom of the
hills.