MacM, I have to admit I don't really understand the last paragraph of your post.
I will use the two forumlas you have given to show that 'closure time' will be shorter for objects of greater mass.
For simplicities sake, let's make up the constants so they are easier to work with:
Earth = 100kg
Bowling ball = 10kg
Soccer ball = 1 kg
Distance (r) = 1m
G = 1 (instead of 6.6742 × 10^−11)
So we have our made up world, Nonceworld.
Force = G. m1.m2 / r^2
Bowling Ball
Force = 1 . 100 . 10 / 1 = 1000 Noncicles of force
F = ma, so a = 1000/10 = 100 m/s^2
Soccer Ball
Force = 1 . 100 . 1 / 1 = 100 Noncicles of force
F = ma, so a = 100/1 = 100 m/s^2
So they accelerate at the same rate towards earth
THE EARTH
OK, this bad boy when placed a metre away from the BB
F = ma, so a = 1000/100 = 10 m/s^2
and from the SB
F = ma, so a = 100/100 = 1 m/s^2
So the Earth accelerates towards the BB faster than towards the SB.
And so the heavier object lands first.
This is Nonceworld, so the figures will be different in the real world but only in scale. And if the objects were dropped at the same time, they would both land at the same time, it's only if dropped seperately that this happens.
Last edited by Blue_UK; 08-03-04 at 08:05 AM..
quietrain said:apparently heavier objects reach the ground faster than light objects assuming no air resistance
http://www.sciforums.com/showthread.php?t=39234
quietrain said:er it should be the same principle right? unless the air hockey is not free fall :(
its been ages since i last touched one.
Drew777 said:If an air hockey table is turned on and one end is elevated so the hockey puck slides to the other end freely. Would it take longer for a heavier puck to reach the end of the table before a lighter puck or vice versa?
The movement of hockey pucks on an air hockey table is affected by several factors, such as the velocity and direction of the air flow, the smoothness of the table surface, and the weight and design of the puck itself.
The velocity of the air flow plays a crucial role in the movement of hockey pucks on an air hockey table. The faster the air flow, the more force is exerted on the puck, causing it to move at a higher speed. This is why professional air hockey tables have powerful air blowers to create a strong and consistent air flow.
The smoothness of the table surface is important because it affects the friction between the puck and the table. A smooth surface reduces friction and allows the puck to glide more easily, resulting in faster and smoother movements.
The weight and design of the puck can greatly influence its movement on an air hockey table. Lighter pucks will be more easily affected by the air flow and may move faster, while heavier pucks will require more force to be moved. The shape and design of the puck can also affect its aerodynamics and how it interacts with the air flow.
The air pressure inside the table is responsible for creating the cushion of air that allows the puck to glide smoothly. If the pressure is too low, the puck may not move as fast, while if it is too high, the puck may bounce too much and be difficult to control. Maintaining the correct air pressure is crucial for optimal movement of hockey pucks on an air hockey table.