Science Project Idea: Rainy Day Experiment for Measuring Wetness

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on a science project aimed at measuring how wet a person gets while walking versus running in the rain. The project will utilize average values for running speed and surface area, while also considering the average mass of raindrops and their distribution. The concept of terminal velocity is introduced, emphasizing the balance of gravitational and drag forces. The feasibility of the project is affirmed, particularly through the use of spreadsheet simulations for data analysis and adjustments.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of terminal velocity and the forces of gravity and drag
  • Basic knowledge of raindrop mass and distribution
  • Familiarity with spreadsheet software for simulations
  • Ability to conduct experiments and gather empirical data
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the average mass of raindrops and their typical spacing
  • Learn about calculating terminal velocity using drag equations
  • Explore spreadsheet simulation techniques for modeling physical experiments
  • Investigate methods for measuring surface area in relation to rainfall exposure
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for students, educators, and hobbyists interested in physics experiments, particularly those focusing on fluid dynamics and environmental science.

Danielle_riv
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I've got an idea for a science project that I thought I'd run by you. I was walking home one day in the rain and I thought to myself, would I get more wet if I walk or run? At least initially I plan on ommiting wind... if I can get a handle on it then I'll add this to the mix.
There are some problems though, obviously how fast you run will directly affect how wet you get... so I'll set it at maybe the average speed of a person my age, also the surface area will vary, again I'll set it at an average or mine something of that nature.
As I see it the way to go about this would be to find the average mass of a rain drop, maybe even how far apart they would be

Wow suddenly now that I'm typing this out I'm starting to get the feeling I might be in wayyy over my head.
Is this whole plan impossible or can i pull this off? I am in no hurry by the way I've got months
 
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you'll need a "top-view" surface area and a "front-view" Area,
and you'll want to look at a FEW typical speeds for raindrops.

(yes, they've reached "terminal speed" where F_grav + F_drag = 0 )

It's do-able, especially as a spreadsheet simulation so you can tweak it.

But if you start out with fundamentals like the mass of a raindrop,
predicting the terminal speed from air drag is a whole other project.
 

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