Basketball projectile motion problem

In summary, the conversation discusses a problem involving a ball reaching a hoop and the time it takes to do so. The person attempting the problem has tried it multiple times and shares their approach, including finding the time to reach the ball's max height and using equations to calculate the time to reach the hoop. The speaker also mentions a similar previous problem and the possibility of using the same approach.
  • #1
Maiia
79
0

Homework Statement


Attached I have the picture that comes with the problem. The question is how long does it take the ball to reach the hoop?

The Attempt at a Solution


I tried this problem 5 times, but I can't seem to get the right answer. Here is the way I approached the problem:
I already found the time it takes the ball to reach its max height= 1.180630296s. I found delta y to be 3.047m. I then used V^2y= V^20 + 2a(delta y). I plugged in 9.8 as "a" and 3.047 as delta y. I found Vy to be 7.727949275m/s. I then plugged that into Vy= V0y + ayt with V0y being 0. I got .788566253s as my time. I then added this time to the time at the max height for a time of 1.969196549s.
 

Attachments

  • basketball projectile motion.doc
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  • #2
Maiia,

I haven't seen the document yet (it's pending approval), but it should be very similar to your previous problem of throwing a rock from top of the building. In fact, reversing the motion of the basketball is the same problem. The given variables may differ, but you know how to find them.
 
  • #3


I would like to provide some additional insights and suggestions for solving this basketball projectile motion problem. Firstly, it is important to carefully read and understand the given problem statement, including the given variables and known values. In this case, we are given the initial velocity (V0) and the maximum height (delta y) of the basketball, and we are asked to find the time it takes for the ball to reach the hoop.

Secondly, it is important to use the correct equations and units in solving the problem. In this case, the equations for projectile motion are:

- Horizontal displacement (x) = V0x * t
- Vertical displacement (y) = V0y * t + 1/2 * a * t^2
- Velocity in the horizontal direction (Vx) = V0x
- Velocity in the vertical direction (Vy) = V0y + a * t
- Time (t) = 2 * Vy / a

Note that the acceleration (a) is always constant and equal to -9.8 m/s^2 for objects in free fall near the Earth's surface.

Thirdly, it is important to double-check your calculations and units to ensure accuracy. In this case, it seems like the correct approach was used, but there may have been some errors in the calculations or unit conversions. It may be helpful to show your calculations and units in your solution attempt for easier verification.

Lastly, it is always a good practice to try solving the problem using different methods or approaches to confirm the results. For example, you could also use the equation for total displacement (d) = V0 * t + 1/2 * a * t^2 and solve for time, or use a graphing calculator or simulation to visualize and analyze the projectile motion.

In conclusion, solving physics problems requires careful reading, understanding of concepts and equations, accurate calculations and unit conversions, and double-checking of results. I hope these insights and suggestions will help you in solving this and future physics problems. Keep up the good work!
 

1. What is projectile motion in basketball?

Projectile motion in basketball refers to the curved path that a basketball follows when it is thrown or shot through the air. This motion is a combination of horizontal and vertical motion due to the force of gravity.

2. How do you calculate the trajectory of a basketball?

The trajectory of a basketball can be calculated using the laws of motion and the principles of projectile motion. This involves considering the initial velocity, angle of projection, and the force of gravity to determine the path of the basketball.

3. What factors can affect the projectile motion of a basketball?

Several factors can affect the projectile motion of a basketball, including the initial velocity, angle of projection, air resistance, and the force of gravity. Other factors like the texture of the basketball and the surface it is being shot on can also have an impact.

4. How can understanding projectile motion help in improving basketball skills?

Understanding projectile motion can help in improving basketball skills by allowing players to make more accurate shots and passes. By understanding the factors that affect the trajectory of a basketball, players can adjust their technique and aim to improve their shots.

5. Can you use mathematics to predict the trajectory of a basketball?

Yes, mathematics can be used to predict the trajectory of a basketball. By using equations and principles from physics, it is possible to calculate the path of the basketball and predict where it will land based on its initial conditions.

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