Question

Consider a solid metal sphere (S) a few centimeters in diameter and a feather (F). For each quantity in the list that follows, indicate whether the quantity is the same, greater, or lesser in the case of S or in that of FExplain in each case why you gave the answer you did .Here is the list: (a) the gravitional force; (b) the time it will take to fall a given distance in air ; (c) the time it will take to fall a given distance in vacuum; (d) the total force force on the object when falling in vacuum

Answer 1

Answer:

A) Gravitational Force is greater in S.

B) Time taken to fall a given distance in air will be greater for F.

C) Both will take same time to fall in a vacuum.

D) Total force is greater in S.

Explanation:

(a) In this case, the gravitational force of S will be greater, because Newton's Second Law states that - F = ma, or weight =mg. g is constant. And mass of the solid metal is heavier.

(b) In this case, the time it will take for F to fall from a given distance in air will be greater than that of S, since the air resistance is not negligible (as in the case of S).

(c) In this, It will take same time for S and F because in a vacuum, there are no air particles, so there is no air resistance and gravity is the only force acting and so objects fall at the same rate in a vacuum.

(d) The total force will be greater in S than F because Force=ma and S is of heavier mass than F.