How Long to Fall from the Leaning Tower of Pisa?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the time it takes for an object to fall from the Leaning Tower of Pisa, which stands at a height of 54.6 meters. Participants utilized kinematic equations, specifically the formula x = x_0 + v_0t + (1/2)at^2, to derive the time of fall. The correct time calculated by integrating the velocity formula yields approximately 3.336 seconds, correcting earlier miscalculations that suggested 17.4 seconds. Key points include the importance of understanding acceleration due to gravity, which is 9.8 m/s², and the proper application of kinematic equations.

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  • Understanding of basic kinematics and motion equations
  • Familiarity with acceleration due to gravity (9.8 m/s²)
  • Knowledge of integrating velocity to derive distance
  • Ability to manipulate algebraic equations for solving time
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  • Study the derivation of kinematic equations in Physics
  • Learn about the concept of free fall and gravitational acceleration
  • Explore the integration of velocity functions in physics
  • Practice solving real-world problems using kinematic formulas
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celect
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I need to know where to start, any good books to help out I'm taking a self study course. I have some study guide from Army education center. I am waiting for video course show up.

How long would it take for an object dropped from the Leaning Tower
of Pisa height 54.6 meters to hit the ground?



Thanks
 
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u need to certain equations while solving kinematics problem

here we have to connect displacement and time so the equation is

x= x_0 + v_0t+(1/2)at^2
 
Physics 101

I guess I should have mentioned that this is my first taking a physics course.

I reviewed the text and came up with the folowing.

t=d/v ave

54.4/9.8m/s^2

I came up with 17.4 seconds.
 
Apply the formula which i have quoted i.e.
x= x_0 + v_0t+(1/2)at^2

here x-x_0= - 54.4
v_0=0
a=-g
 


Originally posted by celect
t=d/v ave

54.4/9.8m/s^2

I came up with 17.4 seconds.
This formula could be used, but to use it, you'd first have to find v_{\text{average}}, which is actually rather difficult to find.

Futhermore, note that 9.8 m/s^2 is not a velocity, it's an acceleration. If you were to blindly perform this calculation, dividing "meters" by "meters per second squared," your anwer will be in "seconds squared" -- which is not the same as "seconds" at all!

You should take himanshu's advice -- he is trying to teach you how to use the proper formula for the job.

- Warren
 
Thanks to all

by himanshu121
Apply the formula which i have quoted i.e.
x= x_0 + v_0t+(1/2)at^2

here x-x_0= - 54.4
v_0=0
a=-g


My text only includes a few formulas.
This is my first course I learning distance study.
this one looks like yours.

d = v_i * t + 1/2 * a * t^2

I used this formula:
given v_i =0.0m/s
d= -54.6m
a= -9.8m/s^2

I have to find t


I now solve t= 3.3 s

(thanks I read more now I understand to use - for doward motion)
 
Yes its correct and is good u got the meaning for - sign
 
Last edited:
Originally posted by celect
How long would it take for an object dropped from the Leaning Tower
of Pisa height 54.6 meters to hit the ground?

Integrate the velocity formula to get a distance formula

\int V_f \,dt = \int V_i + at \,dt

d_f = d_i + \frac {1}{2} at^2

now rearrange

\sqrt{\frac{2(d_f - d_i)}{a}} = t

\sqrt{\frac{2(54.6 - 0)}{9.81}} = 3.336s

3.336 s
 

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