How Many Feet Per Second Do Humans Free Fall?

When discussing the dynamics of free fall, one of the most interesting and widely asked questions is: how many feet per second do humans free fall? This article will explore the physics behind this phenomenon and debunk some common misconceptions. Let's delve into the science and uncover the truth.

The Physics of Free Fall

Free fall is a state in which gravity is the only force acting on an object, causing it to accelerate downward at a constant rate. On Earth, this acceleration due to gravity is approximately 32.2 feet per second squared, commonly denoted as 32.2 ft/s2.

Understanding Acceleration Due to Gravity

The acceleration due to gravity (denoted as g) is a fundamental force of nature that determines how quickly objects fall towards the Earth. On Earth, this value is approximately 32.2 ft/s2, which means an object's velocity increases by 32.2 feet per second every second under the influence of gravity alone.

Initial Velocity and Free Fall

For the first instant of free fall from sea level, the initial velocity is zero. As the object starts moving, gravity acts on it, and it begins to accelerate. After one second, the object will be traveling at 32.2 feet per second. This value continues to increase by 32.2 feet per second every second.

The Formula for Free Fall

The formula for the velocity (v) of an object in free fall after t seconds is:

Where g is the acceleration due to gravity (32.2 ft/s2) and t is the time in seconds. This equation shows that the velocity (v) is directly proportional to the time (t) and the acceleration due to gravity (g).

Real-World Applications and Considerations

Understanding the acceleration due to gravity has numerous real-world applications. It is vital for ensuring the safety and accuracy of various activities, including sports, engineering, and space exploration.

Jump Height and Time

To calculate jump height from a person's free-fall acceleration, we can use the formula:

This formula shows the height (h) an object falls in terms of time (t) and acceleration (g).

Atmospheric Resistance and Terminal Velocity

It is important to note that in reality, the acceleration due to gravity is not always constant. Atmospheric resistance, or air friction, begins to effect the fall after a certain height, leading to the concept of terminal velocity. Terminal velocity is the maximum speed an object reaches when the force of gravity equals the force of air resistance. However, for the initial stages of a free fall, the acceleration due to gravity can be approximated as 32.2 ft/s2.

Conclusion

In summary, the velocity at which humans free fall is 32.2 feet per second in the first instant from sea level. This value increases by 32.2 feet per second every second due to the constant acceleration of gravity. Understanding the physics of free fall and the associated calculations is crucial in various scientific and practical applications.