If you fall down an escalator going up, do you ever stop falling?

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SUMMARY

This discussion centers on the physics of falling on an escalator moving upwards. Participants explore the dynamics of falling versus the escalator's speed, concluding that individuals typically fall faster than the escalator ascends. The conversation also touches on the lack of empirical studies specifically addressing the mechanics of falling on escalators, highlighting a gap in research regarding this phenomenon.

PREREQUISITES
  • Basic understanding of physics principles, particularly motion and gravity.
  • Familiarity with escalator mechanics and their operational speeds.
  • Knowledge of empirical research methods in physics.
  • Awareness of human biomechanics during falls.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the physics of motion to understand the dynamics of falling objects.
  • Investigate existing studies on escalator safety and accident statistics.
  • Explore biomechanics related to human falls and injury prevention.
  • Learn about the design and engineering of escalators, including speed regulations.
USEFUL FOR

Physics students, safety engineers, and anyone interested in the mechanics of falls and escalator safety protocols.

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If you fall down an escalator going up, do you ever stop falling?
 
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Jupiter60 said:
If you fall down an escalator going up, do you ever stop falling?
If you fall down a long flight of stairs, can you stop before hitting bottom?
 
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:-p

 
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Normally, people fall faster than the escalator is moving up.
 
Khashishi said:
Normally, people fall faster than the escalator is moving up.

Are you quoting from a database of escalator fall dynamics?

Seriously, have studies been done to establish " normally " for this case?
 

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