Projectile Motion / Kinematics Lab (Only 2 Variables Given)

In summary, the lab task involves launching a projectile at a certain angle into a cup at a certain distance away, with the launcher being 37 cm off the ground and the cup being 7 cm off the ground. The goal is to solve for Dx with only two variables given, but without knowing the initial speed of the projectile, the problem cannot be solved.
  • #1
dimitri194
1
0

Homework Statement


So, our lab entails the students launching a projectile at a certain angle into a cup at a certain distance away. The launcher is 37 cm off of the ground and the cup is 7cm of the ground, so the Dy = 37-7 = 30cm. We will be given the angle in class and will be asked to position the cup at a certain distance. Let's say for example it is 35 degrees.

How could we solve for Dx with only two variables.
Any thoughts?

Thanks.


Homework Equations


tanθ = Vy/Vx


The Attempt at a Solution


I was thinking of using Vx = Vy/tanθ and then possibly substituting something in for Vy from another kinematic equation but that would require time and we are only given measuring tape, no timer.
 
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  • #2
Hint: we are only given measuring tape.

Welcome to PF!
 
  • #3
Without knowing the initial speed of the projectile, this problem cannot be solved.
 

Related to Projectile Motion / Kinematics Lab (Only 2 Variables Given)

1. What is projectile motion?

Projectile motion is the motion of an object through the air that is affected only by the force of gravity. It is a type of motion that is characterized by a constant horizontal velocity and a vertical acceleration due to gravity.

2. What are the two variables given in a Projectile Motion / Kinematics Lab?

The two variables given in a Projectile Motion / Kinematics Lab are the initial velocity and the angle of launch.

3. How do you calculate the horizontal and vertical components of velocity?

The horizontal and vertical components of velocity can be calculated using trigonometric functions. The horizontal component can be found by multiplying the initial velocity by the cosine of the angle of launch. The vertical component can be found by multiplying the initial velocity by the sine of the angle of launch.

4. What is the relationship between the horizontal and vertical components of velocity?

The horizontal and vertical components of velocity are independent of each other. This means that the horizontal component remains constant throughout the motion, while the vertical component changes due to the acceleration of gravity.

5. How does the angle of launch affect the range of a projectile?

The angle of launch directly affects the range of a projectile. The maximum range is achieved when the angle of launch is 45 degrees. As the angle of launch decreases or increases from 45 degrees, the range decreases. At 0 degrees, the range is 0, and at 90 degrees, the range is also 0.

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