Elevator Free Fall: Impulse, Momentum, and Forces Explained 

In this video, we dive into the intriguing physics of an elevator free-falling from a height of 36 m. When the elevator cable snaps, what happens to a 90 kg passenger during the sudden stop at the bottom of the shaft? Using principles from energy conservation, impulse and momentum, and the work-energy principle, we explore how to calculate:

• The velocity of the passenger at impact using kinematics of free fall.
• The magnitude of the impulse experienced during the collision, applying the impulse-momentum theorem.
• The average force acting on the passenger during the collision, with and without a jump at the last moment, demonstrating stopping force calculations.

We break down the free-fall physics problem step-by-step, showing you how to apply energy conservation (using 1/2mv² = mgh) and impulse formulas (J = Δp) to solve this real-world physics scenario. You’ll also see vertical motion analysis using Newton's laws in elevators, understanding how forces in elevators play a role in such situations. You’ll learn how the average force is affected if the passenger attempts to jump just before impact—could this action save them from greater harm?

Additionally, we explore the concept of apparent weightlessness during the free fall, analyzing how the forces on the passenger change throughout the fall and impact. We consider momentum conservation and the mechanical energy conservation principles to understand the energy dynamics of this system.

Whether you're a student preparing for your AP Physics exam or just curious about how physics applies to everyday situations, this tutorial will help you master concepts such as kinematics of free fall, energy conservation, impulse, and average force calculations in collisions.