How much distance will a falling object cover in the 5th second?

Think it through first, then pick an option.

Answer and explanation

Correct answer: c 44.1 m

The distance in the 5th second = h₅ − h₄ = 122.5 − 78.4 = 44.1 m.

Why the other options are wrong

a 122.5 m: 122.5 m is the total fallen in the first 5 s (½ × 9.8 × 25). The question asks only for the 5th second.
b 78.4 m: 78.4 m is the total fallen in the first 4 s (½ × 9.8 × 16). It is not the distance of the 5th second.
d 25 m: 25 m comes from no correct step. Find the distances for 5 s and 4 s with h = ½gt² and subtract.