How can you land safely when falling from free fall?

In summary, the conversation discusses the physical impossibility of a cartoon and the explanation behind it using physics terms. The main questions revolve around the relationship between air resistance and gravitational force, and how different densities of fluids or gases can affect the terminal velocity and result in a softer landing. The terminal velocity equation is referenced and it is stated that at this point, air resistance equals gravity, which is about 125 mph for most people in free fall.
  • #1
nofrills
1
0
Hi I'm trying to explain how this cartoon is physically impossible

I know its impossible from common sense, but i don't know how to explain it using physics terms So my questions are:

1) Does the air resistance force have to be much greater than the Fgrav to make you land safetly? If so how much does it have to be

2) What increases the air resistance?
 
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  • #2
hi there
welcome to PF :smile:

look at the terminal velocity equation here ...

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Terminal_velocity

it will answer your 2 questions

and assuming the same person / object falling of a given mass and area, experiment with values of
f7f177957cf064a93e9811df8fe65ed1.png
the density of the fluid/gas through which the object is falling.
Search the density for air and for say water and then for some other fluid/gas in between that would result in a terminal velocity that would give a soft landingcheers
Dave
 
  • #3
At terminal velocity, air resistance balances gravity. For most people in free fall, this is about 125 mph.
 

1. What is free fall and why is it dangerous?

Free fall is the state of an object falling under the sole influence of gravity. It is dangerous because without any external forces acting on the object, it will accelerate towards the ground at a constant rate, potentially causing injury or death upon impact.

2. How does air resistance affect free fall?

Air resistance, also known as drag, is a force that opposes the motion of an object through air. As an object falls, it will experience an increasing amount of air resistance, which will eventually balance out the force of gravity. This is known as terminal velocity, and it is the maximum speed at which an object can fall.

3. What are the key factors that determine the speed and impact of a free fall?

The key factors are the height of the fall, the weight and surface area of the falling object, and the presence of air resistance. The higher the fall, the greater the speed and impact will be. A heavier object will accelerate faster, and a larger surface area will experience more air resistance, slowing down the fall.

4. How can a parachute help in a free fall?

A parachute works by increasing air resistance and slowing down the fall of the object. When a parachute is deployed, it creates a large surface area that encounters air resistance, reducing the speed of the fall. This allows for a safer and slower landing.

5. Can you control your direction during a free fall?

Yes, it is possible to control your direction during a free fall by manipulating your body position. By changing the position of your arms, legs, and torso, you can change the direction of air resistance and alter your trajectory. This technique is known as skydiving and requires proper training and equipment.

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