Tree Work
Falling Object Force Calculator
A 200 lb branch falling 30 feet hits the ground at almost 4,000 lb of force if it stops in 6 inches. Enter the weight, drop, and stop distance to estimate peak impact force.
Peak impact force (lb)
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- Impact speed (ft/s)
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- Impact speed (mph)
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- Energy (ft-lb)
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FAQ
Why does stop distance matter so much? +
Force = energy ÷ distance. The same fall into 6 inches of soft turf vs 1 inch of concrete gives 6× the force on concrete. Crushable energy absorbers (sand piles, debris cushions) save anchors and equipment.
What is the speed equation? +
Free-fall: v = √(2·g·h). At 32.2 ft/s² gravity and 30 ft drop, you hit ~44 ft/s — about 30 mph.
Why estimate this? +
To pick anchors and rigging that can survive a worst-case shock load, and to choose drop zones that absorb energy rather than just deflecting it.