Solving the Falling Man Problem: Calculating Building Height

In summary, the height of a building can be calculated using the Falling Man Problem by measuring the time it takes for an object to fall from the top of the building to the ground and plugging it into the equation h = 1/2 * g * t^2. However, there are limitations to this method, such as variations in gravitational acceleration, air resistance, and human error. To account for air resistance, a more complex equation can be used, but it is often considered negligible for practical purposes. The Falling Man Problem can be used to calculate the height of any object in free fall, and there are other methods such as using trigonometry or measuring devices, but the Falling Man Problem remains a commonly used and useful alternative.
  • #1
alafleur1
2
0
How would i go about solving this?

A man falls off a building with height D. He travels 1/4D in the last 1 second of fall. How high is the building?
 
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  • #2
well y = y_0-v_0*t-1/2 g*t^2

you have 1/4 delta y in 1sec

do you see how to continue
 
  • #3


To solve this problem, we can use the equations of motion to find the height of the building. The equation for the distance traveled during free fall is d = 1/2gt^2, where g is the acceleration due to gravity (9.8 m/s^2) and t is the time. In this case, we know that the man travels 1/4 of the building's height in the last second of his fall, so we can set up the following equation:

1/4D = 1/2(9.8)(1)^2

Solving for D, we get D = 4.9 meters. Therefore, the height of the building is 4.9 meters.

It is important to note that this calculation assumes ideal conditions and does not take into account air resistance or other factors that may affect the man's fall. This solution should be used for academic purposes only and not for real-life applications. Other methods, such as using a measuring tape or laser rangefinder, should be used for accurate measurements of building height.
 

1. How do you calculate the height of a building using the Falling Man Problem?

The height of a building can be calculated using the Falling Man Problem by measuring the time it takes for an object to fall from the top of the building to the ground. This time can then be plugged into the equation h = 1/2 * g * t^2, where h is the height of the building, g is the acceleration due to gravity (9.8 m/s^2), and t is the time in seconds.

2. What are the limitations of using the Falling Man Problem to calculate building height?

There are several limitations to consider when using the Falling Man Problem to calculate building height. These include variations in gravitational acceleration due to location and elevation, air resistance, and human error in timing the fall. Additionally, this method may not be accurate for extremely tall buildings or those with unique shapes.

3. How can you account for air resistance when using the Falling Man Problem?

In order to account for air resistance, scientists can use a more complex equation that takes into consideration the drag coefficient, cross-sectional area, and mass of the object. However, for most practical purposes, the effects of air resistance can be considered negligible and ignored when using the basic Falling Man equation.

4. Can the Falling Man Problem be used to calculate the height of any object?

The Falling Man Problem can be used to calculate the height of any object as long as the object is in free fall and the time it takes to fall can be accurately measured. This method has been used to calculate the height of everything from buildings to mountains to planets.

5. Are there any other methods for calculating building height?

Yes, there are other methods for calculating building height, such as using trigonometry and measuring the angles between the top and bottom of the building from a distance. Another method involves using a measuring device, such as a laser rangefinder, to directly measure the height of the building. However, these methods may not always be feasible or accurate, making the Falling Man Problem a useful and widely used alternative.

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