To ensure that each blow to the dynamic cone penetrometer anvil has the same force, what action must take place with regards to the hammer?

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Multiple Choice

To ensure that each blow to the dynamic cone penetrometer anvil has the same force, what action must take place with regards to the hammer?

The hit energy in a dynamic cone penetrometer comes from the hammer's mass dropping a fixed height, so each blow delivers the same energy only if the hammer is allowed to freefall from a set height. When it is released to fall, gravity gives a predictable amount of energy to every impact, assuming minimal friction and no hand contact altering the motion. Any other method—easing, throwing, or pushing the hammer—changes the velocity at impact or adds external input, making the energy per blow inconsistent. So, letting the hammer freefall from the designated height ensures identical force for each blow.

The hit energy in a dynamic cone penetrometer comes from the hammer's mass dropping a fixed height, so each blow delivers the same energy only if the hammer is allowed to freefall from a set height. When it is released to fall, gravity gives a predictable amount of energy to every impact, assuming minimal friction and no hand contact altering the motion. Any other method—easing, throwing, or pushing the hammer—changes the velocity at impact or adds external input, making the energy per blow inconsistent. So, letting the hammer freefall from the designated height ensures identical force for each blow.

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