Basic question regarding gravitational acceleration

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the downward velocity of a 1 kg object released from a height of 1 meter under the influence of gravitational acceleration. The force acting on the object is correctly identified as F = mg = 9.81 N. To determine the velocity of the object as it falls, users can apply kinematic equations, specifically V = gt for velocity as a function of time and D = 1/2 gt² for distance as a function of time, assuming no air resistance.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's second law of motion
  • Familiarity with kinematic equations
  • Basic knowledge of gravitational acceleration (g = 9.81 m/s²)
  • Concept of free fall and its assumptions (ignoring air resistance)
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation and application of kinematic equations in physics
  • Learn about the effects of air resistance on falling objects
  • Explore advanced topics in gravitational physics, such as terminal velocity
  • Investigate real-world applications of gravitational acceleration in engineering
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, educators teaching basic mechanics, and anyone interested in understanding the principles of gravitational acceleration and motion.

Pogo Physics
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Hello,

I have a very basic physics question. If I lift a body of mass 1 kg into air, it will be attracted by a downward force F = mg = 98.1 N.

What I want to know is what would be the downward velocity of the object? If I release an object of mass 1 kg from a height of 1 m, with what equation can I find the velocity of the object or the time needed by the object to reach the earth?

Thank you.
 
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Pogo Physics said:
I have a very basic physics question. If I lift a body of mass 1 kg into air, it will be attracted by a downward force F = mg = 98.1 N.
I think you mean 9.81 N.

What I want to know is what would be the downward velocity of the object? If I release an object of mass 1 kg from a height of 1 m, with what equation can I find the velocity of the object or the time needed by the object to reach the earth?
Ignoring complications such as air resistance, the acceleration of a falling body is constant. So you can use any of the standard constant acceleration kinematic formulas. For example:

V = gt (gives the velocity as a function of time)
D = 1/2 gt2 (gives the distance as a function of time)
 

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