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planauts
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Homework Statement
In a particular thunderstorm, the hailstones and raindrops have the same mass and terminal velocity. Explain with reference to Newton's second law why the hailstones hurt more than raindrops when they hit you.
Homework Equations
[tex]F = ma[/tex]
[tex]F = m \frac{v}{t}[/tex]
[tex]F = \frac{p}{t}[/tex]
The Attempt at a Solution
Net Force on an object equals mass x acceleration. Net Forces on both the raindrop and hailstones are different. The force of gravity is the same downward. But the force upward caused by wind resistance is different based on aerodynamic shape. Since the raindrop is not as aerodynamic as the hailstone the wind resistance will be greater, and hence acts a brake against gravity. The actual velocity of the hailstone will be greater when it hits your face. Terminal velocity is the same but neither if them ever reach.I don't think that is right. The book said:
Hint: [tex]F = \frac{p}{t}[/tex]
I am not sure.
Thanks,