Free Fall
Chapter Name : Gravitation |
Sub Topic Code : 101_09_10_02_01 |
Topic Name : Free Fall |
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Sub Topic Name : Free Fall |
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Introduction
The motion of objects falling under the force of gravity have constant acceleration when the friction of air is neglected. This is called free fall. Any motion, purely due to gravity is called free fall.
Pre-Requisites:
Introduction to Gravity, Universal Law of Gravity
Activity:
Drop an A4 sheet paper from mid air. Calculate the acceleration. Compare it with the value of g
Real Life Question:
When a cat falls from a window sill, does it fall with constant velocity or constant acceleration?
Key Words / FlashCards
| Key Words | Definitions (pref. in our own words) |
|---|---|
| Gravity | Force that attracts you to Earth. In general, force that attracts 2 objects which have mass to each other |
| Acceleration due to gravity - g | g = 9.8 ms-2 |
Learning aids / Gadgets
| Gadgets | How it can be used |
|---|---|
| Ticker Tape | This method can be used to measure the acceleration due to gravity. Find out how! |
Real life uses :
Almost all objects fall down. Knowledge about gravity helps you explain certain phenomenon and also know the impact of fall.
Places to visit :
The physics lab at your school is an excellent place to do activities based on the principal of gravity
Practical examples around us
| Examples | Explainations |
|---|---|
| Sky Diving | A Recreation made possible by free fall. |
| Leaning tower of Pisa | This is where the free fall concepts came into existence. |
What you learn in Theory:
The value of acceleration due to gravity.
What you learn in Practice:
How this effects several kind of motions, like projectile motion of cannon ball.