How fast must a cliff diver be running before jumping off the cliff?

Question:

Answer:

Given the following data;

• Height of cliff = 45.1m
• Horizontal distance = 17.8m

We know that acceleration due to gravity is 9.8 m/s². The initial velocity of the cliff diver is 0 m/s.

To find the time taken to reach the water, we would use the second equation of motion;

S = ut + (1/2)at²

Substituting the known values into the equation, we get;

45.1 = 0(t) + (1/2)*9.8*t²

45.1 = 4.9*t²

t² = 45.1 / 4.9

t = √9.204

t = 3.034 seconds

Now, to find the speed required, we use the formula;

Speed = distance / time

Substitute the values into the equation;

Speed = 17.8 / 3.034

Speed = 5.87 m/s

Therefore, the cliff diver must be running at a speed of 5.87 meters per second before jumping off the cliff to ensure a safe landing.