Calculating Terminal Velocity with Wind Resistance in Falling Objects

In summary, the conversation revolved around calculating the speed at which someone would hit the ground after jumping from a 7th story building. The group discussed the factors that need to be taken into account, such as wind resistance and the act of jumping itself. They also mentioned that for smaller creatures like mice, these calculations may not be as significant.
  • #1
tombombodil
1
0
My friends and I were having a discussion about falling and new the whole rate of acceleration and what not, but where unsure how to account for A) wind resistance and B) the act of jumping.

So assuming that we "jump" from a 7th story building, and assuming that each story is 10 feet, and all other factors are static. Assuming that One "jumps" roughly 8in 20.3cm, how would you go about calculating how fast you would be going when you hit the ground, accounting for wind resistance?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
If you can calculate how fast you would hit the ground from 70 ft, then to account for the "jump" you simply calculate how fast you would hit the ground from 70 ft + jump...which would be 70 ft and 8 in. Not much of a difference (around .2 mph)

Accounting for air resistance is not as easy because it depends on how you fall (straight as an arrow, flat with arms spread out, countless other positions), and it slows you down as a square function of your speed. However from a 7th story it probably wouldn't make much of a difference as you'd only be going about 45 mph.
 
  • #3
No problem if you happen to be a mouse, apparently. Their terminal velocity is very low and they can just walk (/limp?) away after landing.
 

What is wind resistance?

Wind resistance, also known as air resistance or drag, is a force that opposes the motion of an object through air. It is caused by the collision of air molecules with the surface of the object, creating a force that slows down the object's movement.

How does wind resistance affect falling objects?

When an object falls, it experiences two main forces: gravity pulling it downwards and air resistance pushing it upwards. The presence of air resistance causes the object to fall at a slower rate, as the force of gravity is counteracted by the opposing force of air resistance.

What factors affect wind resistance during falling?

The amount of wind resistance experienced by a falling object depends on several factors, including the object's shape, size, and speed. Objects with a larger surface area or higher speed will experience more wind resistance than smaller or slower objects.

Can wind resistance be beneficial during falling?

In some cases, wind resistance can be beneficial for falling objects, as it can slow down their descent and prevent them from reaching dangerous speeds. For example, parachutes take advantage of wind resistance to help people safely land from high altitudes.

How do scientists study falling with wind resistance?

Scientists study falling with wind resistance through experiments and mathematical models. They can use specialized equipment, such as wind tunnels, to simulate different conditions and measure the effects of wind resistance on falling objects. They also use equations and calculations to predict how objects will fall in different scenarios.

Similar threads

  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
2
Replies
39
Views
2K
  • Electromagnetism
Replies
3
Views
1K
Replies
5
Views
1K
Replies
12
Views
2K
Replies
25
Views
3K
Replies
2
Views
2K
Replies
13
Views
2K
Replies
69
Views
10K
  • Electromagnetism
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • Mechanical Engineering
Replies
5
Views
1K
Back
Top