Free Falling Object: Calc. d = 19.6m in 1s

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a physics problem involving a free-falling object, specifically calculating the total distance fallen after one second, given that it covers a quarter of its total distance in that time. The subject area is kinematics, focusing on motion under the influence of gravity.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the use of kinematic equations to determine the distance fallen, with one participant calculating a distance of 19.6 m based on their application of the formula. Others question the validity of this result, suggesting that the problem may require a more complex approach.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring different interpretations of the problem. Some express confidence in the calculations presented, while others raise concerns about the simplicity of the answer and reference differing results from their class, indicating a lack of consensus on the correct approach.

Contextual Notes

There is mention of a discrepancy between the calculated distance and what was suggested by the original poster's teacher, who indicated that the answer might be significantly larger, leading to confusion about the problem's requirements.

Mid
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Homework Statement
A free falling object starts from rest and travels a quarter of its full distance in one second. solve for how far the object falls in total?
Relevant Equations
gravity (9.8 m/s), motion formulas
v1 = 0 m/s
a = 9.8 m/s
t = 1sec
d = ?

d = v1t + 1/2at^2
d = 4.9 m
total distance = 4.9*4
= 19.6 m
thats what i was doing but i think I am wrong
 
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Hello @Mid,

Welcome to PF! :welcome:

Mid said:
Homework Statement: A free falling object starts from rest and travels a quarter of its full distance in one second. solve for how far the object falls in total?
Homework Equations: gravity (9.8 m/s), motion formulas

v1 = 0 m/s
a = 9.8 m/s
t = 1sec
d = ?

d = v1t + 1/2at^2
d = 4.9 m
total distance = 4.9*4
= 19.6 m
I'll agree with that. :smile:

thats what i was doing but i think I am wrong
What makes you think you're wrong?
 
collinsmark said:
Hello @Mid,

Welcome to PF! :welcome:I'll agree with that. :smile:What makes you think you're wrong?
I'm in grade 12 and this question was directly taken from 1st year university physics and my teacher said the answer isn't that simple to get and students in my class got the answer to be around 274 m
 
Mid said:
I'm in grade 12 and this question was directly taken from 1st year university physics and my teacher said the answer isn't that simple to get and students in my class got the answer to be around 274 m
The answer is quite simple if you approach the problem logically, as you have done.

274m cannot possible be correct, as the object would have to fall 68.5m in the first second.
 

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