Introduction Physics: Free Fall problem

AI Thread Summary
To solve the free fall problem of divers jumping from 36 meters, the relevant equation is V^2 = u^2 + 2as, where u is the initial velocity (0 m/s), a is the acceleration due to gravity (-9.8 m/s²), and s is the displacement (36 m). The calculation leads to a final velocity that seems incorrect, suggesting confusion about the signs of the vectors. It is important to consistently apply the sign conventions for acceleration and displacement to avoid errors. Clarifying these aspects will help in accurately determining the divers' velocity upon entering the water.
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Homework Statement


Divers in Acapulco, Mexico, leap from a point 36 m above the sea. What is their velocity when they enter the water?


Homework Equations


V^2=u^2+2as, probably wrong.


The Attempt at a Solution



s=36, u= 0, Find Final Velocity, a= -9.8 , I get some ridiculous number. Don't know how to start the problem.
 
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If the acceleration vector is taken as negative, so too shall the displacement vector, thus you would not have any imaginary number.
 
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