How Do You Calculate the Force of a Falling Object Compressing a Spring?

In summary, the conversation discusses the need to determine the force of a falling object, using variables such as mass, velocity, and duration of impact. The speaker mentions a discrepancy between the theoretical and experimental values, and wonders if the margin of error should be as large as it is. They also mention the use of equations such as F=m∆V/∆t and F=ma, as well as the possibility of adding the two downward forces together to find the resultant force.
  • #1
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Homework Statement


I need to know the force of a falling object.
m=1.502 kg
v=0.528 m/s (this value is way off from the theoretical which is .9598 m/s)
Duration of impact = 0.167 s

I have all the variable but my problem is this:
This falling object compresses a spring which needs a force of 21 N to compress. From my experiment, the spring compresses but the calculation doesn't work out. This could be just experimental error but I don't think the margin of error should be this big.

Homework Equations


F=m∆V/∆t

The Attempt at a Solution



F=((1.5025)(0-0.528))/0.167
F=4.75 N [down]

F=ma
F_g=(1.5025)(9.8)
F_g=14.7245 N [down]

F_e=kx
F_e=(512)(0.041)
F_e=20.992 N [up]

I was also wondering if you add the two downward forces together. If that is true, then the force using my theoretical value would be correct.
 
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  • #2
well, if you have two forces pointing downward and you want to find the resulant force you should add them .. I am not sure what is the other question you are trying to ask?
 

FAQ: How Do You Calculate the Force of a Falling Object Compressing a Spring?

What is the force of a falling object?

The force of a falling object is the amount of energy exerted by the object as it falls due to the Earth's gravitational pull.

How is the force of a falling object calculated?

The force of a falling object can be calculated using the formula F = mg, where F is the force, m is the mass of the object, and g is the acceleration due to gravity (9.8 m/s² on Earth).

Does the force of a falling object change?

Yes, the force of a falling object changes as it falls. As the object gets closer to the ground, the force increases because the acceleration due to gravity increases.

How does the shape of an object affect its force when falling?

The shape of an object does not affect its force when falling. However, the shape can affect the air resistance, which can impact the speed and acceleration of the object, and therefore affect the force.

What are some real-life applications of understanding the force of a falling object?

Understanding the force of a falling object is important in many fields, such as engineering, construction, and sports. It can help engineers design buildings and structures that can withstand the force of gravity, and it can also help athletes and coaches understand the impact of gravity on different sports movements.

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