[Blindmath] physics/mathematics problem; have a solution?

David Engebretson Jr. davide at soundandscience.com
Mon Dec 19 05:14:00 UTC 2011


Physics problem - have a solution?:

Imagine a 68" object with a mass of 170 pounds travelling at 2.5 miles per hour (assume the mass is evenly distributed in the object in motion). The mass drops four feet and all of the momentum and other forces are placed in a single point on the object at 4 feet. Assume, also, that the bottom of the mass lands at the bottom of the four foot hole at the same time the impact upon the mass is inflicted upon the mass (ignore any loss of energy due to the landing of the mass in the bottome of the hole - the landing and the impact are ALMOST instantaneous).

What is the amount of force that the mass absorbs at the time of impact?

You can also assume the mass is 20" wide at the "point" of impact.

In summary:
The mass drops four feet travelling 2.5 mph. The impact area is 4 feet up from the bottom of the mass. The impact point is a single line 20" wide.



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