Cannon Ball r(t) - Find Max Ø for Increasing r2

In summary, the largest possible value of Ø for r(t) to always increase throughout the ball's flight is when the derivative of r^2 with respect to time is greater than zero, and when there is no gravity in the x-direction.
  • #1
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Homework Statement



Question: A cannon shoots a ball at angle Ø above the horizontal ground. Neglecting air resistance, and letting r(t) denote the ball's distance from the cannon, What is the largest possible value of Ø if r(t) is to increase throughout the ball's flight? [hint: Write down r2 as x2 + y2, and then find the condition that r2 is always increasing.]

Homework Equations



r(t) = gt2/2 + v0t + x0
r2 = x2 + y2
x = rcosØ
y = rsinØ

The Attempt at a Solution



r2 = (gt2/2 + v0t + x0)(gt2/2 + v0t + x0) = x20 + 2x0v0t + x0gt2 + v20t2 + v0gt3 + g2t4/4 = x2 + y2 = r2(cos2Ø + sin2Ø)

I don't know how to solve for Ø, so that r2 is always increasing.
 
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  • #2
1) There shouldn't be any gravity in the x-direction.
2) You have to find dr^2/dt > 0 if r^2 is going to always increase
 

1. What is a Cannon Ball r(t)?

A Cannon Ball r(t) is a mathematical model used to describe the trajectory of a cannon ball that is fired from a cannon at a specific angle and velocity.

2. How is r(t) calculated?

The equation for Cannon Ball r(t) is typically calculated using the principles of projectile motion, taking into account variables such as initial velocity, angle of launch, and gravity.

3. What does r2 represent?

r2 represents the distance of the cannon ball from the point of origin, also known as the radius.

4. How is the maximum angle (Ø) for increasing r2 determined?

The maximum angle (Ø) for increasing r2 can be determined by finding the peak of the function r(t) and calculating the corresponding angle at that point.

5. What is the significance of finding the maximum angle for increasing r2?

Finding the maximum angle for increasing r2 allows us to determine the optimal angle at which the cannon ball should be fired in order to achieve the maximum distance from the point of origin. This information is useful for predicting the trajectory of the cannon ball and optimizing the accuracy of the cannon's aim.

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