Answer:
Step-by-step explanation:
assume that the only force acting on the rock is gravity, which gives it a constant acceleration of 9.81 m/s^2.
When the kid drops the rock, it starts with an initial velocity of 0 m/s and falls for a time of 4.0 s before reaching the ground. Using the equation:
d = (1/2)at^2 + vit
where d is the distance fallen, a is the acceleration due to gravity, t is the time, vi is the initial velocity (which is 0), and we solve for a:
a = 2d / t^2
a = 2 * h / t^2 (where h is the height of the cliff)
a = 2 * g * h / t^2 (where g is the acceleration due to gravity)
a = 2 * 9.81 m/s^2 * h / (4.0 s)^2
a = 4.905 h m/s^2
When the kid throws the rock, it starts with an initial velocity vi and falls for a time of 3.0 s before reaching the ground. Using the same equation:
d = (1/2)at^2 + vit