Thrown vs Dropped Objects: Explained

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SUMMARY

The discussion clarifies the fundamental differences between thrown and dropped objects in physics. A thrown object possesses an initial velocity due to the force applied during the throw, while a dropped object starts from rest, having an initial velocity of zero. Both scenarios experience the same gravitational acceleration of 9.8 m/s². The equations of motion, specifically x(t) = x_0 + v_0 t + (g t²)/2, apply to both cases, with the distinction that v_0 equals zero for dropped objects.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic kinematics
  • Familiarity with gravitational acceleration (9.8 m/s²)
  • Knowledge of motion equations (e.g., x(t) = x_0 + v_0 t + (g t²)/2)
  • Concept of initial velocity in physics
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of kinematics in greater detail
  • Explore the effects of initial velocity on projectile motion
  • Learn about free fall conditions and their implications in physics
  • Investigate real-world applications of thrown vs. dropped objects in sports or engineering
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Students of physics, educators teaching kinematics, and anyone interested in understanding the dynamics of motion involving thrown and dropped objects.

alyafey22
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What 's the difference between an object thrown or dropped , does a thrown object treat as a free fall condition ?? if it does
we know that d=v(initial)*t + 1/2a*t^2
and we know that in free falls condition we use the equation d= 1/2g*t^2
that means initial velocity of free falls should be zero and thrown object has an initial velocity ??
can anyone explain to me this , please >>>?
 
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It's hard to make out what you are asking but I think that what you are saying is correct.

If we release (not throw), a ball for instance, on Earth relative to Earth then it's initial velocity is fairly obviously zero. You were just holding the ball before it dropped, it's was not moving relative to you or the earth. It clearly doesn't have any velocity (it's not moving!)

Now if we throw a ball we swing our arm before the ball is released. The ball is moving with our arm but the ball is still moving so when it it released the ball will have some initial velocity

EDIT: In both instances there is the same acceleration (9.8 m/s^2) the only difference is that in the throwing scenario we are giving the ball an starting velocity.

[tex]x(t) = x_0 + v_0 t + \frac{g t^2}{2}[/tex] will work in both cases, but if we drop a ball then [tex]v_0=0[/tex] in that equation.
 
Yes...in everyday speaking the difference between 'throwing' and 'dropping' (or 'lifting') is the initial velocity.The first one implies that the initial velocity is not zero while the second implies that it is.
 

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