Air resistance of someone falling out of an airplane

AI Thread Summary
A person falling from an airplane traveling horizontally at 60 m/s will theoretically cover 180 meters in 3 seconds, as calculated using the formula d=vt. However, air resistance significantly impacts the actual distance traveled, as it opposes motion and can slow horizontal speed. Factors such as the individual's weight, body position, and shape also influence the degree of air resistance encountered. Consequently, the real horizontal distance may be less than 180 meters due to these variables. Understanding the effects of air resistance is crucial for accurate distance calculations in practical scenarios.
espo
if someone falls out of a airplane that is horizontally traveling at 60m/s and goes into the ocean 3.0 seconds later with no air resistance what would the horizontal distance he travels while falling be. is the formula d=vt and the answer 180 m
 
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You got it. His horizontal motion is unaffected by gravity. He continues to move at 60 m/s horizontally during the entire 3.0 seconds of his fall. In those three seconds, he has moved 180 meters.

- Warren
 


Yes, the formula d=vt can be used to calculate the horizontal distance traveled by the person falling out of the airplane. However, in this scenario, air resistance would play a significant role in the person's fall and the calculation of the horizontal distance traveled may not be accurate. Air resistance is the force that opposes the motion of an object through the air. As the person falls, they will experience an increasing amount of air resistance, which will slow down their horizontal speed and decrease the distance they travel. Therefore, the actual horizontal distance traveled by the person may be less than 180m due to the effect of air resistance. Other factors such as the person's weight, body position, and the shape of their body can also affect the amount of air resistance they experience. It is important to consider these factors when calculating the distance traveled in a real-life scenario.
 
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