During a tornado, softer objects are driven through apparently harder objects

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In summary, during a tornado, softer objects can be driven through apparently harder objects due to the harder objects having greater mass and more inertia, causing them to stay put while the softer objects pass through. However, this is just a hypothesis and does not account for non-tornado conditions.
  • #1
Dmitri10
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Homework Statement


During a tornado, softer objects are driven through apparently harder objects. How is this possible?

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The Attempt at a Solution


The harder objects have greater mass, and thus more inertia, so they are more difficult to move. Rather than move when the softer objects hit them, the harder object stays put and the softer objects go through.

Is this correct?
 
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  • #2
It's a hypothesis, and you have a (hand-waving) argument for it.

But you should be suspicious -- it doesn't involve tornadoes at all. If correct, it would imply that "softer objects driven through apparently harder objects" under non-tornado conditions as well.
 
  • #3


Yes, that is a correct explanation. Another factor to consider is that tornadoes are characterized by extremely high wind speeds, which can create a vacuum effect that pulls objects towards the center of the tornado. This can also contribute to the apparent "driving" of softer objects through harder objects. Additionally, the twisting and rotating motion of a tornado can create a lot of force and pressure, which can also contribute to the movement of objects through seemingly harder objects.
 

FAQ: During a tornado, softer objects are driven through apparently harder objects

What causes softer objects to be driven through harder objects during a tornado?

The high winds and strong rotations of a tornado create a powerful force that can pick up and propel objects of all sizes, including softer objects through harder objects. This is known as the "missile effect" of a tornado.

Why do softer objects seem to penetrate harder objects more easily during a tornado?

The softer objects may have a higher surface area to mass ratio, making them more susceptible to the force of the tornado. The strong winds can also cause the softer objects to become deformed, making them more aerodynamic and able to penetrate through harder objects.

Can any object be driven through another during a tornado?

Generally, objects that are smaller and lighter have a higher chance of being driven through other objects during a tornado. However, the exact objects that will be driven through others is unpredictable and can vary greatly depending on the strength and path of the tornado.

Is there any way to prevent softer objects from being driven through harder objects during a tornado?

Currently, there is no known way to prevent the missile effect of a tornado. However, taking precautions such as securing loose objects and seeking shelter in a sturdy building can help reduce the potential damage caused by this phenomenon.

What are some examples of softer objects that have been driven through harder objects during a tornado?

There have been reports of all types of objects being driven through others during tornadoes, including straws through trees, blades of grass through telephone poles, and even pieces of straw through steel and concrete walls.

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