How Tall Was the Initial Fall in a Physics Problem?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the initial height from which a freely falling object descends, given that it takes 1.10 seconds to travel the last 20.0 meters before impact. Participants emphasize using the equations of motion: V = Vi + at and d = Vi*t + 0.5*a*t^2. By applying the second equation, users can determine the initial velocity (Vi) at the 20-meter mark, which is essential for finding the total height from which the object fell.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of kinematic equations in physics
  • Familiarity with concepts of free fall and acceleration due to gravity
  • Basic algebra skills for solving equations
  • Knowledge of time-distance relationships in motion
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation and application of kinematic equations in physics
  • Learn how to calculate free fall motion using gravitational acceleration (9.81 m/s²)
  • Explore examples of projectile motion and its equations
  • Investigate the concept of initial velocity in various motion scenarios
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, educators teaching kinematics, and anyone interested in understanding motion dynamics and free fall calculations.

ryno2107
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A freely falling object requires 1.10 s to travel the last 20.0 m before it hits the ground. From what height above the ground did it fall? (Ans. in m.)

I am completely lost on modeling this problem. Please help me figure it out.
 
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The model is just accelerated motion so you have the usual
V = Vi + at and d = Vi*t + .5*a*t^2 to work with.
Looks like you don't have enough info to use the first one, but the second one can be used to get the Vi - the velocity at height 20 m.
That's a good start. Then you can use the first equation to found out when the velocity was zero.
 

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