Physics 101: Average Force Calculation for a Falling Object Hitting a Pole

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the average force exerted by a falling object upon impact with a pole, specifically focusing on a 200kg object that falls from a height of 10 meters and penetrates the ground by 8 centimeters. The subject area includes concepts of work, energy, and force in physics.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the relationship between work, force, and energy, with some attempting to calculate potential and kinetic energy. Questions arise regarding the correct application of formulas and units, particularly in relation to work and force.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively engaging with the problem, discussing various approaches to calculate the average force. Some guidance has been provided regarding the relationship between work and energy, and there is an ongoing exploration of the correct units and calculations involved.

Contextual Notes

There appears to be some confusion regarding the application of formulas and the interpretation of units, particularly distinguishing between Newtons and Joules in the context of work and force.

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Homework Statement



200kg object 10m in the sky falls 8 meters and hits a pole. pole goes 8cm into ground.

Homework Equations


Average Force for the poles descent into the ground (8cm). Answer in Newtons.


The Attempt at a Solution



E(p) = mgh = 200*9.82*8J = 15712J = 15.7KJ

hmmm...
 
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How much do you know about the concept of work?
 
W=F*S

F = mg = 200*9.82 = 1964N

W = 1964N*8M = 15712N ?

hmm..im not getting the right answer.
 
Yes, work = force * distance. There's also a relationship that says that work = difference in kinetic energy. If you can find the amount of potential energy that's been made into kinetic energy during the fall, you can find the amount of kinetic energy lost when the object pushes the pole down, which is then equal to the work done.

The force in W = F*d is the one you want to find. And the unit of work is not, as you say in your previous post, Newton. It's Joules :)
 

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