Final answer:
The formula d = (1/2) * g * t² reveals that an object falling for 10 seconds from rest under gravity (9.8 m/s²) would cover a distance of 490 meters. Therefore correct answer is option a.
Step-by-step explanation:
When calculating the distance traveled by a falling object, the formula d = (1/2) * g * t² proves indispensable. Here, d represents the distance covered, g is the acceleration due to gravity (fixed at 9.8 m/s²), and t stands for the time of descent.
Applying this formula to an object falling for 10 seconds, the computation unfolds as follows: d = (1/2) * 9.8 * (10)², yielding a distance of 490 meters. This outcome illuminates that if an object descends from rest for a duration of 10 seconds, it would traverse a distance of 490 meters.
The formula encapsulates a fundamental linkage between time, gravity, and the resultant distance during the free fall of an object.
As such, it serves as a cornerstone in understanding the mechanics of falling bodies and provides a quantitative means to predict the distance covered under the influence of gravity over a specific duration.