Mechanics Projectile Motion Question

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on solving a projectile motion problem involving a tennis ball served horizontally from a height of 2.3 meters, which strikes the ground 28 meters away. The key steps to find the height of the ball when it passes the net 12 meters from the server include calculating the time it takes to hit the ground, determining the initial velocity, and using the acceleration due to gravity to find the vertical distance fallen. The participant successfully applied these principles to arrive at the correct answer with guidance from another forum member.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of projectile motion principles
  • Familiarity with the equations of motion
  • Knowledge of initial velocity and acceleration due to gravity
  • Basic algebra skills for solving equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the equations of motion in detail, focusing on horizontal and vertical components
  • Learn how to calculate time of flight for projectile motion
  • Explore the concept of initial velocity in projectile motion scenarios
  • Practice solving similar projectile motion problems with varying parameters
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A-Level Maths and Physics students, educators teaching projectile motion, and anyone looking to strengthen their understanding of kinematics in physics.

Antagonist
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Hi,

I am new here and I am doing A-Level Maths and Physics. I am currently having trouble in A2 maths. I am doing M2 and am doing projectile motion.
This is the question I am having trouble with:

A tennis ball is served horizontally from a height of 2.3m and it strikes the ground at a point 28m away from the server. Find its height when it passes the net 12m from the server.

I have been trying to work it out but the 5 equations of motion do not seem to work as I do not have enough information. All they give me in this questions is distances. What is the velocity(initial and final), time and most importantly the answer to the question. I am not sure if the velocity and time is needed for the answer. This is probably very simple but its stumped me. If anyone could help it would be much appreciated.

Thanks,

--Antagonist
 
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Do you know the height of the net?
EDIT:
OK, sorry about that, you don't need it.
Now, the ball is launched horizontally, that is has zero vertical velocity to begin with.
Hence, you may find the time the ball strikes the ground.
Secondly, since you know it has traveled horizontally 28 meters, you may solve for initial velocity.
 
Last edited:
I followed your instructions and that led me to the answer. I figured out the time and initial velocity and then found out the time for it to travel 12m using the initial velocity I found out earlier. Then I found out the distance it fell using the time and acceleration due to gravity. Finally I subtracted the distance it fell from the beginning distance and that is the answer. :)

Thanks arildno for your help

--Antagonist
 
No prob.
Welcome to PF!
 

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