Exploring Physics of Dropping an Egg from a 5-Story Building

In summary, the conversation discusses the physics of dropping an egg from a 5 story building. It mentions the forces acting on the egg, such as gravity and air friction, and how to control them to prevent the egg from breaking. The use of materials, particularly sand, is also discussed as a way to protect the egg from impact. The conversation also delves into the aerodynamic shape of an egg and its role in studying aero/fluid dynamics. Suggestions for increasing the interval of impact and the best way to position the egg for a safe landing are also mentioned.
  • #1
gr8one626
2
0
I need to write a short paper on the physics of dropping an egg from a 5 story building. Below are questions I pondered...

What are the forces acting on the egg as it falls?

How can you control the forces that cause the egg to break?

What are the common characteristics of the materials that protected some eggs?

Does layering of materials play a role in protection?
 
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  • #2
As the egg falls, force of gravity, air friction and wind act on it. You can control the air friction by letting the egg drop from rest and not giving it an initial velocity.
 
  • #3
thanks for your input... any other comments/suggestions?? IM DESPERATE!
 
  • #4
Is it possible that an "egg" was chosen because of the (chicken) eggs aerodynamic shape, hence a study in aero/fluid dynamics, with respect to gravitational forces accelerating it, towards the earth.

It is the best 'airflow model' after all...
 
  • #5
Its not the fall that hurts the egg; its the sudden stop.

Consider ways to increase the interval of impact. A slow change in momentum is associated with a smaller force.
 
  • #6
I just did a project in class where we had to drop two eggs in a shoebox that also contained a brick. We had to cushion the egg anyway we wanted. The best cushion turned out to be sand. This worked best if you fixed it so the box broke open and the sand spilled out allowing the force of impact to be dispersed through the sand and the eggs were fine. It also helps to place the egg vertically with the small end facing down. We dropped these from the top of a football stadium.. I don't know if this helps any but hope so...
 

What is the purpose of dropping an egg from a 5-story building in physics?

The purpose of dropping an egg from a 5-story building in physics is to demonstrate the principles of motion, specifically gravity and air resistance. By observing the egg's trajectory and the forces acting upon it, we can better understand these concepts.

What factors affect the outcome of dropping an egg from a 5-story building?

The main factors that affect the outcome of dropping an egg from a 5-story building are the height of the building, the mass and shape of the egg, the angle at which it is dropped, and the presence of air resistance. Other factors such as wind and temperature can also play a role.

What happens to the egg as it falls from the 5-story building?

As the egg falls from the 5-story building, it experiences a downward force of gravity and a resistive force from the air. Initially, the egg will accelerate due to the force of gravity, but as it gains speed, the resistive force from the air will increase until it reaches a terminal velocity, where the forces are balanced and the egg falls at a constant speed.

How does the height of the building affect the outcome of dropping an egg?

The height of the building directly affects the outcome of dropping an egg. The higher the building, the longer the egg has to accelerate and reach its terminal velocity. This can result in a greater impact and a higher likelihood of the egg breaking upon impact.

What are some real-life applications of understanding the physics of dropping an egg from a 5-story building?

Understanding the physics of dropping an egg from a 5-story building can have real-life applications in fields such as engineering, architecture, and even sports. By understanding the principles of motion and forces, we can design structures and equipment that can withstand impacts and forces, as well as improve athletic performance by optimizing techniques for maximum distance and accuracy.

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