Question

Falling into a leaf pile is much more comfortable than falling onto the bare ground. In both cases you come to a complete stop, so why does the leaf pile feel so much better?

Answer 1

A leaf pile reduces the pain of a fall by increasing the duration of the impact, which decreases the force exerted on the body. This contrasts with a hard surface, which shortens the duration of the impact and increases the force, resulting in greater pain.

Step-by-step explanation:

Falling onto a leaf pile is more comfortable than falling onto the bare ground because of the difference in the impact force experienced. The key factor here is the duration of the impact. When falling onto a soft surface like a leaf pile, the duration of the impact is increased, which spreads the force over a longer time, hence reducing its effect.

When you come to a halt after falling, whether on the ground or a leaf pile, your body experiences an impact force. According to the impulse-momentum theorem, ΔP = F × Δt, where F is the force exerted on your body during the collision and Δt is the duration of the impact. A softer surface like a leaf pile increases Δt, which means the force F is lessened. On the other hand, a hard surface such as bare ground decreases the impact duration, resulting in a greater force and a more painful experience.