Very vague question about projectile launch angle

In summary, the elevation angle at launching can be found by using trigonometry and the fact that the horizontal velocity remains constant throughout the motion. The speed at maximum height is equal to the x-component of the velocity, which is 5.2 times the launching speed. With this information, the relation between the launching speed and the horizontal velocity can be determined.
  • #1
scavok
26
0
The launching speed of a certain projectile is 5.2 times the speed it has at maximum height. What is the elevation angle at launching?

Could someone just give me a starting point or a hint in the right direction?

I know that the horizontal velocity doesn't decrease, and the vertical velocity is 0 at the maximum height. I can't put it together though; it seems like there isn't enough information given. How can you possibly tell by how much of a factor the speed is being affected by the vertical velocity, when you don't know the horizontal velocity?
 
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  • #2
Maybe you can assume the magnitude [tex] V[/tex] of the lunching speed and find the relation between it and the horizontal velocity.Hint: use trigonometry
 
Last edited:
  • #3
At the maximum height the y component of the velocity is zero, therefore the speed at maximum height is only the x-component of the motion. The x-component of the velocity stays the same throughout the motion.
 

What is projectile launch angle?

Projectile launch angle is the angle at which a projectile, such as a ball or bullet, is launched or thrown into the air. It is measured in degrees from the horizontal.

Why is projectile launch angle important?

The launch angle of a projectile is important because it determines the trajectory and distance of the projectile's flight. A small change in launch angle can result in a significant difference in the landing point of the projectile.

How is projectile launch angle calculated?

The launch angle of a projectile can be calculated using trigonometry. The formula is launch angle = arctan (vertical velocity / horizontal velocity).

What is the optimal launch angle for maximum distance?

The optimal launch angle for maximum distance depends on the initial velocity of the projectile and the force of gravity. In general, a launch angle of 45 degrees will result in the maximum distance for a projectile launched at the same velocity.

Can the launch angle affect the height of the projectile?

Yes, the launch angle can affect the height of the projectile. A lower launch angle will result in a lower height and a higher launch angle will result in a higher height. However, the overall trajectory will still be affected by the force of gravity.

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