When will an object with air resistance hit the ground?

In summary, the conversation discusses the problem of a mass m being released from a height h and falling to the ground under the influence of gravity and air resistance. The equation of motion is derived using the given information and it is shown that the mass hits the ground after a time T given by T=kh/mg + m/k(1-exp(-kT/m)). The conversation then moves on to consider two objects of identical size and shape but different masses being dropped simultaneously. It is asked whether they hit the ground at the same time or not. The conversation does not provide a complete solution, but instead points out that too many steps are being left out and highlights a mistake in the given solution.
  • #1
captainjack2000
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0

Homework Statement


mass m released from a height h falls to the ground under the influence of gravity. It is acted on by air resistance which has the magnitude k times the speed. Show that the mass hits the ground after a time T given by
T=kh/mg + m/k(1-exp(-kT/m))
ii)assume two objects of identical size and shape but differing masses are dropped simultaneously. working in first order of k/m determine whether they hit the ground at the same time or if not the time difference.


Homework Equations




The Attempt at a Solution



Taking downward direction as positive I have the equation of motion
m(dv/dt) = mg-kv
(dv/dt) = g-(k/m)v

integrating from 0 to v(t) and from 0 to T using separable equations I got
(m/k)ln(1+m/(kv(t))) = T
so
v(t) = (1/k) exp (-kT/m)(m+1)

Could someone tell me if this is right and how to go about finding the time of flight?

Thanks
 
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  • #2
You are leaving out too many steps. Those aren't right and you omitted the details of the steps where you are going wrong. For example, whatever happened to 'g'? In a correct answer as t->infinity, v*k should approach m*g, right?
 

What is a differential equation?

A differential equation is a mathematical equation that describes the relationship between a function and its derivatives. It is used to model the rate of change of a variable over time, and is commonly used in physics, engineering, and other scientific fields.

What is the difference between an ordinary and a partial differential equation?

An ordinary differential equation (ODE) involves a single independent variable, while a partial differential equation (PDE) involves multiple independent variables. ODEs are used to model simple systems, while PDEs are used to model more complex systems with multiple variables.

What are the applications of differential equations?

Differential equations have a wide range of applications in various fields of science and engineering. They are used to model physical phenomena such as heat transfer, fluid flow, and electrical circuits. They are also used in economics, biology, and other social sciences to model population growth and other dynamic systems.

What are the different types of solutions to a differential equation?

The type of solution to a differential equation depends on the type of equation. Some common types of solutions include explicit solutions, implicit solutions, and numerical solutions. An explicit solution can be written in terms of the independent variable and the initial conditions, while an implicit solution cannot be written in this form. Numerical solutions use computational methods to approximate the solution.

How are differential equations solved?

Differential equations can be solved using a variety of methods, including separation of variables, variation of parameters, and Laplace transforms. The specific method used depends on the type of equation and its complexity. Some equations may also require the use of numerical methods for approximation.

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