Let's start with the simplest calculation, which assumes
the pelican's initial vertical speed is zero:

(Final velocity)^2 = (2*acceleration*distance)

Let's further say (for the sake of supplying values for
the equation) that the pelican drops from 3 meters (about
9 feet for metriphobes). The acceleration due to gravity
is 9.8m/s/s

(Final velocity)= sqrt(2*9.8*3) or
about 7.6m/s (27.6km/hr; 16.6m/hr)

The actual value would be less if air resistance were taken
into account.

Pelicans may also improve their vertical speed with a couple
flaps. If you knew the value for additional speed you could
include it in the calculation:

(Final velocity)^2 = (initial velocity)^2 + (2*acceleration*distance)

But I'd stick to the simple model


-----Original Message-----
From: Teen Challenge Information [mailto:tcinfo at netwide.net]
Sent: Sunday, February 03, 2002 7:07 AM
To: ptmsc at olympus.net
Subject: Brown Pelican

Could you please tell me how fast a brown pelican is going
when he hit the water while plunge diving?

Thanks.
Clark Whitaker

Teen Challenge Intake


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Mike Patterson When I despair, I remember
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There have been tyrants, and murderers,
and for a time they can seem invincible,
but in the end they always fall.
Think of it...always.
- Mahatma Gandhi

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