Impact and Damage from falling from a bridge into water

In summary, the impact on an average adult male falling from a bridge into still water versus water with waves would be affected by the velocity of his body, with potential harm to his organs. To reduce the force and potential injury, creating air bubbles or waves can decrease the mass and drag, ultimately extending the time of impact. Additionally, landing feet first and crossing arms can also minimize harm.
  • #1
CCphysics
2
0
If an average adult male fell from a bridge (ex. golden gate) what would be the impact on his body when he hit still water versus water with waves. What is his acceleration, momentum, and his change of momentum when he hits the water


With these in mind how does the fall affect his organs which are traveling at the same velocity of his body?
 
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  • #2
CCphysics said:
If an average adult male fell from a bridge (ex. golden gate) what would be the impact on his body when he hit still water versus water with waves. What is his acceleration, momentum, and his change of momentum when he hits the water


With these in mind how does the fall affect his organs which are traveling at the same velocity of his body?

What is the context of your question?
 
  • #3
We want to know how much is the force (or how to calculate the force) of impact on a body falling from a 25ft bridge or higher into water. And if there is any possible way to reduce that force to something that will cause little to no bodily injury. for example if creating air bubble or creating waves will that reduce the force and by how much?


Context can be, a 180 lbs 6' male has decided to go to a 25 ft suspended bridge and jump off into still water. What affects occur on his body by jumping, and what ways can he reduce these negative affects while in the air and/or on impact to stay alive and unhurt.
 
  • #4
CCphysics said:
We want to know how much is the force (or how to calculate the force) of impact on a body falling from a 25ft bridge or higher into water. And if there is any possible way to reduce that force to something that will cause little to no bodily injury. for example if creating air bubble or creating waves will that reduce the force and by how much?


Context can be, a 180 lbs 6' male has decided to go to a 25 ft suspended bridge and jump off into still water. What affects occur on his body by jumping, and what ways can he reduce these negative affects while in the air and/or on impact to stay alive and unhurt.

Land feet first, arms crossed?
 
  • #5
Yes, the vast majority of your variables are going to involve his orientation when he hits the water.
 
  • #6
Competition divers use aerated water in the diving pools for high dives (a big bubble machine is switched on just before the dive). If the water has a lot of bubbles in it (say 20% by volume) then the density of the water will be 0.8 of water. That will mean less mass to collide with initially. Also the drag will be a bit less - reducing the force by extending the time to reduce speed. Both factors must be significant.
The presence of waves will have a similar effect of extending the time of the initial impact - all good stuff.
 

1. What are the most common injuries from falling from a bridge into water?

Some of the most common injuries from falling from a bridge into water include broken bones, head trauma, and internal injuries. The impact of hitting the water can also cause whiplash and other musculoskeletal injuries.

2. How does the height of the bridge impact the severity of injuries?

The height of the bridge can greatly impact the severity of injuries from falling into water. The higher the bridge, the greater the impact when hitting the water. This can result in more serious injuries, such as bone fractures and organ damage.

3. Is it safer to fall from a bridge into shallow or deep water?

It is generally safer to fall from a bridge into deeper water, as shallow water can increase the risk of hitting the bottom and sustaining serious injuries. However, falling from a great height into any body of water can still be dangerous and cause significant injuries.

4. What factors can affect the impact of falling into water from a bridge?

The impact of falling into water from a bridge can be affected by several factors, including the height of the bridge, the angle of the fall, the position of the body upon impact, and the speed at which the person hits the water. Other factors such as the temperature and current of the water can also play a role in the severity of injuries.

5. What precautions can be taken to reduce the risk of injury when falling from a bridge into water?

To reduce the risk of injury when falling from a bridge into water, it is important to avoid jumping from extremely high bridges and to always enter the water feet first. It is also important to be aware of the depth of the water and any potential hazards, such as rocks or debris. Wearing a life jacket can also provide added protection in case of injury or disorientation upon entering the water.

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