Research conducted by former NASA mechanical engineer and popular YouTuber Mark Rober, in collaboration with a team from the Wall Street Journal, has shed light on why smartphones are better able to withstand drops from higher heights compared to minor drops.
The study focused on the concept of terminal velocity, which is the maximum speed an object can reach in free fall while balancing the forces of gravity and fluid resistance. Rober’s experiment involved dropping the latest smartphone models from Apple and Samsung – the iPhone 14 and Galaxy S23 – from various heights to test their resistance.
Results showed that the smartphones performed well when dropped on grass surfaces, even from heights as high as 91 meters, showing only minor marks of dirt on their charging ports. However, when dropped on harder surfaces like asphalt, even a fall from just 90 centimeters resulted in significant damage, such as broken glass and cracked screens.
Physics professor Rhett Allain explained that the deceleration experienced upon impact with different surfaces greatly influences the amount of damage sustained by the devices. A softer surface like grass allows for a slower deceleration, while harder surfaces cause a more abrupt stop.
In a further test using OtterBox Defender protective cases, the smartphones showed improved resistance to drops from higher heights. The cases were designed to absorb shock before it reaches the phone, providing crucial protection. However, even with the protective cases, the smartphones still experienced damage, highlighting the importance of design in protective accessories.
Overall, the study reveals the complex dynamics involved in smartphone durability during falls and emphasizes the importance of surface material and protective cases in preventing damage. The findings can potentially guide manufacturers in designing more resilient devices and accessories for consumers.