Calculating distance from force and impact

In summary, the conversation discusses how to calculate the distance an object would travel after being hit with a specific force, given its mass. The conversation then explores the possibility of working backwards to determine the height an object would need to be dropped from to experience the same force.
  • #1
robwrightham
4
0
If I know the mass of an object, the force of impact, how do i calculate the distance the object is from the impact point?
i have a stationay object of known mass being hit with a piston at a known force and speed can i work backwards and determine at what height if dropped would be equivalent to the known perameters
 
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  • #2
So you want to know at what height an object would have to be dropped to have the same force imparted to it that a specific piston would?
 
  • #3
Hi drakkith, yes that's exactly what I need to calculate, is it possible ? Can you help ?
 

1. How is distance calculated from force and impact?

Distance can be calculated by using the formula d = (1/2) * a * t^2, where d is the distance, a is the acceleration, and t is the time. This formula is derived from the equation for average velocity, which is v = d/t, and the equation for acceleration, which is a = (vf - vi)/t. By substituting the formula for average velocity into the equation for acceleration and solving for distance, we get the formula d = (vf + vi)/2 * t, which can be simplified to d = (1/2) * a * t^2.

2. What is the relationship between force, impact, and distance?

The relationship between force, impact, and distance is dependent on the object's mass and the time of contact. According to Newton's Second Law of Motion, force is equal to mass times acceleration (F = ma). Therefore, a greater force will result in a greater impact, which will cause an object to travel a greater distance.

3. How does the angle of impact affect the distance traveled?

The angle of impact does not directly affect the distance traveled, but it can indirectly impact the distance by affecting the force of the impact. The greater the angle of impact, the more force will be applied in the direction of the impact, resulting in a greater distance traveled.

4. How do friction and air resistance affect the calculation of distance from force and impact?

Friction and air resistance can affect the calculation of distance from force and impact by reducing the acceleration of the object. This can result in a shorter distance traveled compared to the calculated result. To account for this, scientists may use different equations or make adjustments to the initial calculations.

5. What are some real-world applications of calculating distance from force and impact?

Calculating distance from force and impact has many real-world applications, including in the fields of engineering, sports, and accident reconstruction. Engineers may use these calculations to design structures that can withstand the force of impact, while athletes may use them to improve their performance in sports such as long jump or javelin throw. Accident reconstruction experts may use these calculations to determine the distance a vehicle traveled after impact in a car crash.

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