- #1
Peter G.
- 442
- 0
I'd like to start off by saying that all I want is explanations. My head forces me to think in a way that goes against what I "know" is right:
Firstly: I "know" all objects fall at the same speed in a vacuum. What I understand from a vacuum is the absence of air, thus, absence of air friction - air resistance, in other words, an absence of the force pulling things upwards. The force pulling us down, as shown in several parachute cartoons is weight: W = m x g. If there is no force pulling us upwards and the only force acting on us is our weight, dependent on mass, why don't heavier objects fall faster in a vacuum?
The same concept confuses me when air resistance is involved. I remember taking my IGCSE's and facing a question regarding two balls, one made of aluminum and another one made out of plastic. Both had the exact same shape, but naturally, different weights. The answer said that both balls would fall at the same rate. But, once again I am confused. Having the same shape, they have the same aerodynamic properties, meaning the air resistance acting on them will be the same at corresponding speeds, but, one ball is heavier than the other, meaning the force pulling it down is greater. So, shouldn't it fall faster?
I hope what I wrote is clear.
Thanks,
PeterG
Firstly: I "know" all objects fall at the same speed in a vacuum. What I understand from a vacuum is the absence of air, thus, absence of air friction - air resistance, in other words, an absence of the force pulling things upwards. The force pulling us down, as shown in several parachute cartoons is weight: W = m x g. If there is no force pulling us upwards and the only force acting on us is our weight, dependent on mass, why don't heavier objects fall faster in a vacuum?
The same concept confuses me when air resistance is involved. I remember taking my IGCSE's and facing a question regarding two balls, one made of aluminum and another one made out of plastic. Both had the exact same shape, but naturally, different weights. The answer said that both balls would fall at the same rate. But, once again I am confused. Having the same shape, they have the same aerodynamic properties, meaning the air resistance acting on them will be the same at corresponding speeds, but, one ball is heavier than the other, meaning the force pulling it down is greater. So, shouldn't it fall faster?
I hope what I wrote is clear.
Thanks,
PeterG