Dropping objects air resistance

[Big-Daddy]

Homework Statement

A creature of mass m and bottom surface area of A is dropped from a height h towards the ground. The creature dies if a force of F_K or greater acts on it. What is the value range of acceleration due to gravity, g, for such creature to survive the fall?

Homework Equations

Surely the problem requires air resistance since mass and surface area are mentioned. I think this can be modeled as F_D=-k \cdot v unless anyone has any better ideas?

The Attempt at a Solution

The question is what else to do - we'll need a differential equation, then to solve it for g in terms of F_K, h, m and A (probably work out the terminal velocity first and then relate it to F_K and g)? I hope we can assume that height h is sufficient that terminal velocity will be reached. If not, we might have to use something more fundamental.

 

[rude man]

Depends on the softness of the ground. Use the impulse formula. F*Δt = Δp and Δt =√(2s/g). But you need to know s, the distance over which the fall was cushioned, i.e. the softness of the ground.

The presence of A in the problem statement does suggest that air resistance was to be considered. Could be a red herring. I would ignore it or get an explanation from the instructor.