Solving 9.8*Sin(theta)=7.056*Cos(theta)

  • Thread starter RedBurns
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In summary, the equation 9.8*Sin(theta)=7.056*Cos(theta) is used in physics and engineering to solve for the angle (theta) in a right triangle, given the values for the hypotenuse and one of the sides. The numbers 9.8 and 7.056 represent the magnitudes of the gravitational acceleration (g) and the horizontal component of a projectile's velocity (v_x), respectively. This equation can be derived from the kinematic equations of projectile motion and is often used to calculate the initial launch angle of a projectile. It can be solved algebraically, but it is often easier and more accurate to use a graphing calculator or computer program. Some real-life applications of this equation
  • #1
RedBurns
24
2
Could someone remind me the proper way to solve this equation. I cannot recall how.

9.8 * Sin (theta) = 7.056 * Cos (theta)

Plugging number in and working backwads I got the answer theta=36 which is correct as far as I can tell.
 
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  • #2
7.056/9.8 = tan (theta)
theta = inverse tangent of (7.056/9.8)
 
  • #3
CaptainJames said:
7.056/9.8 = tan (theta)
theta = inverse tangent of (7.056/9.8)
We don't give COMPLETE SOLUTION here, in Physics Forums. :grumpy: :grumpy: :grumpy: :grumpy:
However, that's not completely correct, yet. One should also note that:
[tex]\tan x = \tan (x + \pi)[/tex] tangent function is periodic with period [tex]\pi[/tex].
 

What is the equation 9.8*Sin(theta)=7.056*Cos(theta) used for?

This equation is commonly used in physics and engineering to solve for the angle (theta) in a right triangle, given the values for the hypotenuse and one of the sides.

What do the numbers 9.8 and 7.056 represent in the equation?

The numbers 9.8 and 7.056 represent the magnitudes of the gravitational acceleration (g) and the horizontal component of a projectile's velocity (vx), respectively.

How does this equation relate to projectile motion?

The equation 9.8*Sin(theta)=7.056*Cos(theta) can be derived from the kinematic equations of projectile motion, specifically the equations for vertical and horizontal displacement. It is often used to calculate the initial launch angle of a projectile.

Can this equation be solved algebraically?

Yes, this equation can be solved algebraically by using trigonometric identities and manipulation of the equation. However, it is often easier and more accurate to use a graphing calculator or computer program to find the solution.

What are some real-life applications of this equation?

This equation is useful in various fields, such as ballistics and aerospace engineering, where it is used to calculate the optimal launch angle for projectiles and spacecrafts. It can also be used in sports, such as golf or baseball, to determine the best angle to hit a ball for maximum distance.

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