Two objects fall from an apartment window sill at the same time. Object 1 lands on the sidewalk in 3.6 seconds. Object 2 lands on the sidewalk in 3.3 seconds. What can be concluded about the objects?

Question

Responses

Object 1 has less surface area than Object 2.

Object 1 has more surface area than Object 2.

Object 2 weighs less than Object 1.

Object 2 has more mass than Object 1.

Answer 1

Based on the information provided, both objects are falling under the influence of gravity, which accelerates them at the same rate in a vacuum (9.81 m/s² on Earth). However, the fact that Object 1 lands after 3.6 seconds and Object 2 lands after 3.3 seconds indicates that Object 2 reaches the ground faster than Object 1.

Given this, we can infer that the difference in their landing times may be due to factors such as air resistance. Generally, a larger surface area can create more drag, slowing down the fall. Therefore, if Object 2 lands faster, it is likely that it has less air resistance compared to Object 1.

Thus, the most plausible conclusion from the provided options is:

Object 1 has more surface area than Object 2.

This indicates that Object 1 experiences greater air resistance, contributing to its longer fall time compared to Object 2.