The theory of ones self being dropped as a cat from a three storey window

[inequitude]

Dear Physics gurus- I have a question which I believe will be rather simple for one of your to help explain to me.

Not coming from much of a scientific background, I’m looking for a conclusive technical explanation of the following question which I debated at some great length with my housemate last night. As the cider took control of our minds, the passion of our arguments increased to the point where we both agreed to disagree, because neither of us could articulate our point in such a conclusive manner as to persuade the other. Needless to say, I know I’m correct.

The question posed was thus: If I was to be held out of a three storey window with one housemate holding my legs, and the other holding my arms, with my back facing the ground, to then be released without warning, would it be physically possible for me to rotate 180 degrees before hitting the ground, mocking the landing of a cat at seemingly any height. What are the mitigating circumstances one must take into account and is there a technical, physics based, explanation which can be made of this?

May the force be with you, or whatever it is you guys say to each other.
Chris.

 

[pallidin]

I'm not an expert, but I believe the answer is yes.
I think forceful movement of the arms and legs in free-fall can cause an inversion.
Not sure though.

 

[Feldoh]

By conserving angular momentum you should be able to do it.

 

[Danger]

Theoretically possible, but not in a cat-like manner. Cats have 2 more vertebrae than humans, plus that honking huge counterbalance tail. They also have no fear of heights, which can be a serious impediment to a human. This is not a scientific exploration of the situation; merely my initial take of it.

 

[pmacias]

Dear Chris,

Thank you for your question. The scenario you have described is an interesting one, and it raises several important factors that must be taken into account when considering the outcome of such an experiment.

Firstly, it is important to note that the rotation of a cat when falling from a height is due to its ability to land on its feet. This is a result of its flexible spine and powerful leg muscles. As humans do not possess these same physical characteristics, it is unlikely that we would be able to replicate the same rotation.

In addition, the height from which an object falls can greatly affect its rotation. The higher the distance, the more time the object has to rotate. In the case of a three storey window, the height may not be enough for a complete 180 degree rotation to occur.

Another important factor to consider is air resistance. As you fall, the air around you will exert a force in the opposite direction of your motion, known as drag. This force increases with speed, so as you fall, the drag force will also increase. This can affect the speed and rotation of your fall, making it difficult to predict the exact outcome.

Furthermore, the way in which you are held and released can also play a role in the rotation. If you are released with a slight push or spin, it may alter the rotation in a different direction than if you were simply dropped without any added force.

In conclusion, while it may be possible for a human to rotate to some extent while falling from a three storey window, it is unlikely that it would be a perfect replication of a cat's landing. There are many variables at play, and the outcome would be difficult to predict. I hope this provides some insight into the physics behind your question.

Sincerely,