Mechanics: 1-Dimensional Kinematics

1-D Kinematics: Audio Guided Solutions

Problem 30:

The Zero Gravity Research Facility at NASA-operated Glenn Research Center in Ohio is used to test the behavior of fluids, flames, equipment and other objects in free fall. It consists of a 467-foot long, 12-foot diameter, steel vacuum chamber. The steel chamber resides inside of a concrete lined shaft which extends 510 feet below ground level. Objects falling through the tower experience free fall over a distance of 432 feet (132 meters).
a. Determine the falling time for objects dropped from rest.
b. Determine the final speed of the objects before the braking period begins.

Audio Guided Solution

Habits of an Effective Problem Solver

  • Read the problem carefully and develop a mental picture of the physical situation. If necessary, sketch a simple diagram of the physical situation to help you visualize it.
  • Identify the known and unknown quantities in an organized manner. Equate given values to the symbols used to represent the corresponding quantity - e.g., vo = 0 m/s; a = 4.2 m/s/s; vf = 22.9 m/s; d = ???.
  • Use physics formulas and conceptual reasoning to plot a strategy for solving for the unknown quantity.
  • Identify the appropriate formula(s) to use.
  • Perform substitutions and algebraic manipulations in order to solve for the unknown quantity.

Read About It!

Get more information on the topic of Kinematics at The Physics Classroom Tutorial.

Return to Problem Set

Return to Overview

View Audio Guided Solution for Problem:

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 | 19 | 20 | 21 | 22 | 23 | 24 | 25 | 26 | 27 | 28 | 29 | 30 | 31 | 32 | 33 | 34 | 35