Factors Affecting a Falling Object:
* Gravity: The primary force acting on a falling object is gravity. This force causes objects to accelerate downwards at approximately 9.8 m/s².
* Initial Velocity: How fast the object is moving when it starts falling (e.g., dropped from rest, thrown upwards, thrown downwards).
* Air Resistance: Air resistance (drag) opposes the motion of a falling object. This force increases with speed and depends on the object's shape and size.
Calculating Distance:
To calculate the distance a falling object travels, we can use the following physics equation:
d = v₀t + ½at²
Where:
* d = distance
* v₀ = initial velocity
* t = time
* a = acceleration due to gravity (approximately 9.8 m/s²)
Example:
Let's assume the rubber ball is dropped from rest (v₀ = 0 m/s):
* d = (0 m/s)(10 s) + ½(9.8 m/s²)(10 s)²
* d = 490 meters
Important Note: This calculation assumes no air resistance. In reality, air resistance would slow the ball down, resulting in a shorter fall distance.
