[Physics] Calculate magnitude of force acting on some area by falling object

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I have simple question: is it possible to calculate magnitude of force acting on some area by falling object?

Let's say I have an object with mass $5\text{ kg}$. I drop that object in height 1 meter. It potential energy was

$$\begin{align}
E_p &= hmg \\
E_p &= 5(9.81) \\
E_p &= 49.05 \text{ J}
\end{align}$$

Near the ground, kinetic energy of object is

$$E_k = E_p$$

So the velocity is

$$\begin{align}
E_k &= \sqrt{2\frac{E_p}{5}} \\
E_k &= \sqrt {19.62} = 4.429 \frac{\mathrm{m}}{\mathrm{s}}
\end{align}$$

Is there any way how to calculate force of object against ground when it falls on it? If not, what something (against ground) can be calculated for this problem?

EDIT: Let's say that ground is from glass, thickness $10\text{ cm}$. What properties would be affected?

Best Answer

Your data is not enough. You need some data on the ground material (such as modulus of elasticity), body material and shape, etc. For example, if the ground is not hard, the force will be small.

EDIT (06/10/2013): As I said, you need more input data. I don't have time to give you a detailed analysis. You may wish to look at https://www.endevco.com/news/archivednews/2009/2009_02/tp321.pdf to get an idea about the essential factors of the problem.

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