How to Calculate Impact Force from a 1m Drop?

In summary, the conversation discusses the calculation of force experienced by an object when dropped from a certain height without knowing the exact time or distance for it to stop, and without knowing the spring constant of the object or the ground. The speaker also mentions wanting to calculate the force in terms of Newton, and gives an example of dropping an egg to illustrate their question. They also ask for advice on finding a suitable cushioning material and determining the amount needed.
  • #1
leoflc
56
0
I've been trying to figure this out for a few days now and I hope someone can help me out...If an object is lifted 1m above the rigid ground and then it is dropped.
What would be to force experience (in Newton) by the object if:

- You don't know the exact distant or time for the object to come to a complete stop?
- You don't know the spring constant of the object or the ground.

I know we can calculate in terms of energy (J), but I would like to know in term of Newton.

For example, if I drop an egg 1m above the floor, how much force does it experience?
How can I figure out what kind of cushioning material I can use and how much of it?

It seems easy but I think I'm missing something...

Thank you!
 
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  • #2
Why wouldn't you know the time and distance it takes to get to the ground? You said it was held 1 meter above the ground.
 
  • #3
I mean the distance required for the object to stop.

Fixed my question statement.
 

FAQ: How to Calculate Impact Force from a 1m Drop?

How is impact force calculated?

Impact force is calculated by multiplying the mass of the object by its acceleration due to gravity and the duration of the impact. The formula is F = m * a * t, where F is the impact force in Newtons (N), m is the mass in kilograms (kg), a is the acceleration in meters per second squared (m/s^2), and t is the duration of the impact in seconds (s).

What is the difference between impact force and impact energy?

Impact force is the amount of force that an object experiences during an impact, while impact energy is the amount of energy that is transferred during the impact. Impact force is directly related to the mass and acceleration of the object, while impact energy also takes into account the velocity of the object.

How does the angle of impact affect the calculation of impact force?

The angle of impact can affect the calculation of impact force because it changes the direction and distribution of the force. For example, a direct impact will result in a larger impact force compared to an angled impact, where some of the force may be deflected or absorbed by the surface.

Can impact force be decreased?

Yes, impact force can be decreased by increasing the duration of the impact or by using materials that are able to absorb or deflect some of the force. This is why car bumpers are designed to crumple upon impact, which increases the duration of the impact and reduces the force experienced by the passengers.

Are there any limitations to impact force calculations?

Yes, there are some limitations to impact force calculations. The formula assumes that the impact is happening in a vacuum and that the objects involved are rigid and have a uniform distribution of mass. In reality, there may be other factors at play such as air resistance or deformability of the objects, which may affect the accuracy of the calculation.

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