Calculating Distance Fallen for a Dropped Object

  • Thread starter lalahelp
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In summary, the formula for calculating the distance of a fallen object is d = 1/2 * g * t^2, where d represents the distance, g is the acceleration due to gravity (9.8 m/s^2), and t is the time in seconds. Air resistance, also known as drag, slows down the acceleration of a falling object, resulting in a shorter distance traveled compared to an object falling in a vacuum. The mass of the object does not affect its distance when falling according to the formula, but in the real world, more massive objects may experience slightly more air resistance. The height from which an object is dropped does not affect its distance when falling, as all objects fall with the same acceleration due to gravity
  • #1
lalahelp
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Homework Statement


A stone is dropped from rest. Calculate the distance fallen during the first second. Calculate the distance fallen during the second second and third second, etc.

Homework Equations


d = (Vf^2 - Vo^2) / (2*a)


The Attempt at a Solution


a= 9.8 m/s^2
?
I don't know what to do please help me solve this
 
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  • #2
This equation may be more helpful.

[tex] x = x_0 + v_0 t + (1/2) a t^2 [/tex]
 
  • #3
so
x= 0+0+1/2(9.8)(1)^2
 
  • #4
Yes, that looks correct.
 
  • #5
Thank you !
 

FAQ: Calculating Distance Fallen for a Dropped Object

What is the formula for calculating the distance of a fallen object?

The formula for calculating the distance of a fallen object is d = 1/2 * g * t^2, where d represents the distance, g is the acceleration due to gravity (9.8 m/s^2), and t is the time in seconds.

How does air resistance affect the distance of a fallen object?

Air resistance, also known as drag, slows down the acceleration of a falling object, causing it to reach a maximum velocity called terminal velocity. This will result in a shorter distance traveled compared to an object falling in a vacuum.

Does the mass of the object affect its distance when falling?

According to the formula, the mass of the object does not affect its distance when falling. However, in the real world, objects with a larger mass may experience more air resistance, resulting in a slightly shorter distance traveled.

How does the height from which an object is dropped affect its distance when falling?

The height from which an object is dropped does not affect its distance when falling. As long as there is no air resistance, all objects will fall with the same acceleration due to gravity, regardless of the height from which they are dropped.

How can the distance of a fallen object be measured accurately?

The distance of a fallen object can be measured accurately using a measuring device such as a ruler or measuring tape. Alternatively, the distance can also be calculated using the formula d = 1/2 * g * t^2, where g is the acceleration due to gravity and t is the time it takes for the object to fall.

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