Comparing Fall Times of Trees with Different Heights and Mass Densities

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When a tall tree and a short tree with identical width and mass density are cut and begin to tip over, they do not hit the ground simultaneously. The moment of inertia plays a crucial role in determining the fall time, as it affects how quickly each tree rotates. A practical experiment with rulers demonstrates that a longer object does not fall at the same rate as a shorter one. Gravity acts equally on both trees, but their differing heights lead to different fall dynamics. Therefore, the taller tree will hit the ground after the shorter tree.
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Homework Statement



A tall tree and a short tree (both having the same width and mass density) are cut at the base at the same time, and begin tipping over. Which tree hits the ground first?



The Attempt at a Solution



I think they hit at the same time because gravity pulls on both of them equally?
 
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No at all. You will have to consider their moment of inertia. Have you started on the topic already?

In fact you can try this now, put a long and short ruler against the wall, let them drop. You will realize that they do not hit the floor at the same time.
 

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