Projectile Motion Analysis: Solving for Victim's Fall from 4th Story Window

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on analyzing the dynamics of a victim's fall from a 4th story window, specifically a height of 10 meters and a horizontal distance of 7 meters from the wall. The victim, weighing 65 kg, generates a force of 2500 N over a distance of 0.1 m, leading to the calculation of acceleration using F = ma, resulting in an acceleration of approximately 38.46 m/s². This acceleration is then used to determine the final velocity (Vf) through the kinematic equation Vf² = Vo² + 2ax, establishing the feasibility of the victim landing at the specified distance.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's second law of motion (F = ma)
  • Familiarity with kinematic equations, particularly Vf² = Vo² + 2ax
  • Basic knowledge of projectile motion principles
  • Ability to perform calculations involving force, mass, and acceleration
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation and application of kinematic equations in projectile motion
  • Learn about the effects of air resistance on falling objects
  • Explore advanced dynamics concepts, such as impulse and momentum
  • Investigate real-world applications of projectile motion in forensic science
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for physics students, forensic analysts, and anyone interested in the application of dynamics and kinematics in real-world scenarios, particularly in accident reconstruction and analysis.

Parth Dave
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suppose that you found a victim on the pavement below a 4th story window (window sill 10m above the pavement). He is lynig 7m from the base of the wall. You are suspicious about this situation. The victim appears to have died from a fall. If the body has a mass of 65kg and the average human leg can produce a force of 2500 N over a distance of 0.1 m. Is it possible for the victim to land where they did given the above criteria? (note you are not permitted to use an energy argument to solve this question. Use the data to solve this using dynamics and kinematics equations)

The thing that really bugs me about this question is the 2500 N over a distance of 0.1 m. I assume from that you would find the initial velocity. However, I have no idea how to do so.
 
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Is it ok if i said that F = ma. Therefore a = 2500/65.

And than plug that into Vf^2 = Vo^2 + 2ax and solve for vf.

Than use that as the initial velocity for the projectile motion period. And assume that Vf is in the x-direction. That way i can see if it is possible for the person to have landed 7 m away.
 
Well, i believe so, try that.

I mean if you analyze that's 10 cm, so the legs produces that average force in that distance, which could be the distance in the window frame, considering the distance used for Walls depht is usually 0.2 meters.
 
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