This problem can be solved using a kinematic equation. For this case, the following equation is useful:
v_final = v_initial + at
where,
v_final = final velocity of the nail
v_initial = initial velocity of the nail
a = acceleration due to gravity = 9.8 m/s^2
t = time
First, we determine the time it takes for the nail to hit the ground. We know that the initial velocity is 0 m/s since the nail was only dropped. It has a final velocity of 26 m/s. We substitute these values to the equation and solve for t:
26 = 0 + 9.8*t
t = 26/9.8 = 2.6531 s
The problem asks the velocity of the nail at t = 1 second. We then subtract 1 second from the total time 2.6531 with v_final as unknown.
v_final = 0 + 9.8(2.6531-1) = 16.2004 m/s.
Thus, the nail was traveling at a speed of 16. 2004 m/s, 1 second before it hit the ground.
