Falling Tower Problem: Watch How to Solve It in This Video

[ulrichgermany]

Homework Statement

Identical discs are stacked on on top of another to form a freestanding tower. The bottom disc can be removed by applying a sudden horizontal force such that the rest of the tower remains standing. Investigate the phenomenon and determine the conditions that allow the tower to remain standing.

Relevant Equations

_ _
\_o_/
IIII
I I

I actually have no clue. Found a video that demonstrates the problem:

Can someone help pls?

 

[Lnewqban]

Welcome, ulrichgermany!
Are you familiar with the concept of inertia?

If not, please see:
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Inertia

​

 

[haruspex]

To find the exact conditions will be exceedingly complex.
There's friction to think about, but you should cope with that.
But once the bottom block is halfway out from the block above, that block and the tower above it will start to tip. As the bottom block continues, the torque on the tower above it increases. How far will it have tipped when the bottom block is finally clear? What will be the consequence when that leaning tower hits the ground?
You should at least assume the blocks are completely inelastic.

I suggest they do not intend you to worry about the tipping at all.