Why does the heavier spade have a lower acceleration in soil?

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The discussion revolves around the behavior of two spades of different weights when dropped into soil, specifically focusing on the differences in their acceleration upon impact. The subject area includes concepts from mechanics, particularly Newton's laws of motion and forces acting on objects.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the relationship between weight, soil resistance, and acceleration. Questions are raised about the nature of acceleration before and after the spades hit the soil, as well as the implications of Newton's Second Law of Motion.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively engaging with the concepts, offering insights into the forces at play and discussing the implications of mass on acceleration. Some guidance has been provided regarding the relevant equations and the relationship between forces and acceleration, but no consensus has been reached on the final interpretation.

Contextual Notes

There is an emphasis on ensuring that the original poster engages with the material rather than passively receiving answers. The discussion also hints at the need for careful consideration of the forces involved, particularly weight and resistance.

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"2 spades of the same type are dropped form the same height into the same patch of soil. why does the heavier spade have a lower acceleration in the soil than the lighter spade?"
 
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Hi and welcome.
It might something to do with forces and masses. Think about Newton's laws of motion. Or you may like to consider Momentum. It depends upon your level of familiarity with Physics.
 
What is the nature of the acceleration before the spade hits the ground? How about once the spade is in the soil?
 
If we're not careful, the OP will just sit and watch as the full answer emerges so that he can just copy it down without thinking. We need to wait for a response now, I think.
 
Well. Forces wise, there's the weight and soil resistance. Before hitting the soil, it's just weight. After hitting the soil, it's hindered by resistance?

Ohh, Newton's Second Law of Motion?
 
Yews - Newton II: f=ma (rearrange it to get what you need)
How will the forces on the spades differ and how will the masses differ? That should tell you whether there will be any difference in the acceleration (slowing down, that is).
 
Ah I see it.
mg-R = ma
a = mg-R / m
When m increases, a decreases.
Which makes a more negative, bigger deceleration?

Naww, I am not sure. Should it be R-mg then?
 
It's mg-R, if you're considering 'down' as positive. This consistent if you were accelerating at mg.
So you got it. Good.
 

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