Physics - The Difference between Life and Death: III. Great Height

Although calculation of the maximum survivable height from which a human can fall is problematic, it is reasonable to opine that the probability of non-fatality in a descent of some 500 feet from the roof of a building is exceptionally low. When two brothers simultaneously experienced such an event, one lived and the other did not [1]. (Note: A nominally similar fall by another male also resulted in survival [2].) The general methodology for resolving such diverse outcomes is explained in other work [3,4], which provides some background for this study. Differentiation between the two subject adult males was limited by a lack of sufficient specificity in available data; however, it is still possible to consider the relevant physics principles and thereby examine the issues involved. Injury mechanisms are discussed and comparisons with other traumatic environments are made. The latter are included because their everyday nature provides a helpful illustration for learning.\\[4pt] [1] McFadden, R.D. (2007, December 8). The New York Times\\[0pt] [2] Rubinkam, M. (2008, April 25). USA Today\\[0pt] [3\&4] Bull Am Phys Soc, 48, 1348 \& 1349 (2003).