SUMMARY
A 0.50 kg mass dropped from a 20 m tall building reaches a final speed of 14 m/s just before hitting the sidewalk, calculated using the formula vf = √(2 * g * h), where g is 9.8 m/s² and h is the height. The kinetic energy (KE) of the ball halfway down can be determined using the equation KE = 0.5 * m * v², where v is the speed at that point. The discussion confirms the conservation of energy principle, emphasizing the relationship between potential energy and kinetic energy during free fall.
PREREQUISITES
- Understanding of gravitational acceleration (9.8 m/s²)
- Familiarity with the equations of motion for free fall
- Knowledge of kinetic energy formula (KE = 0.5 * m * v²)
- Basic algebra skills for manipulating equations
NEXT STEPS
- Study the derivation of the equations of motion for free-falling objects
- Learn about energy conservation principles in physics
- Explore the concept of potential energy and its relationship with kinetic energy
- Investigate real-world applications of free fall in engineering and safety design
USEFUL FOR
Students in physics, educators teaching mechanics, and anyone interested in understanding the principles of motion and energy conservation in free fall scenarios.