Physics < Force of Gravity > HELP?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a physics problem related to the force of gravity, specifically calculating the distance an object falls when dropped from a hovering helicopter over a time period of 9.0 seconds.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to use the average velocity formula to find the distance fallen, but questions arise regarding the correctness of this approach. Some participants suggest using the kinematic equation for uniformly accelerated motion instead.

Discussion Status

Participants are exploring different methods to approach the problem, with some questioning the validity of the average velocity formula in this context. There is an ongoing examination of the assumptions made about initial velocity and the appropriate equations to use.

Contextual Notes

The original poster notes a lack of additional information in the problem statement, which may affect the interpretation of the scenario.

McKeavey
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During construction of the Canada pavilion in Vancouver, a wrench fell out of a hovering helicopter and took 9.0 s to reach the ground.
How far was the helicopter from the ground?

I'd assume you find Vavg.
And put it into d = v/t
But when I do that I end up with d = 4.9.
The answer says it's 4.0 x 10^2 m AKA 400m.

What did I do wrong?
And there's no additional information given from the Q.
 
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You know that y=ut+0.5at2.

Assume the initial velocity is zero.

You are given time, what is the height y?
 
Oh..
What would be wrong with using d = v/t though? :o
 
McKeavey said:
Oh..
What would be wrong with using d = v/t though? :o

How you plan to go about finding 'v'?
 

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