3 ms·
Ignoring wind resistance is the problem. Undoubtedly mass was accounted for, but they got the incorrect answer because wind resistance has a much greater effect
by AnIdiotOnTheNet 5y ago
Ignoring wind resistance is the problem. Undoubtedly mass was accounted for, but they got the incorrect answer because wind resistance has a much greater effect on the lighter rider. The extra momentum of the heavier rider easily overcomes the small increase in wind resistance. Anyone who has biked with someone of significantly different body mass will have seen ample evidence that bigger people coast downhill faster.
- donkeybeer 5y agoI don't think momentum should affect how fast you slide down. The reasons are different.
- AnIdiotOnTheNet 5y agoI suppose I should have said "inertia". The heavier rider has greater inertia, meaning the wind has less effect on their velocity.