2 Dimensional Motion and Vectors Help

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on a physics problem involving 2D motion and vectors, specifically the scenario of a stone kicked off a cliff at a speed of 18 m/s from a height of 52 m. The time taken for the stone to reach the water is calculated as 3.26 seconds using the equation dy = 1/2gt², where g = 9.81 m/s². However, the final speed upon impact with the water is incorrectly calculated as 31.98 m/s, while the correct speed, accounting for both vertical and horizontal components, is 36.889 m/s. The necessary correction involves vector addition of the horizontal and vertical velocity components.

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  • Understanding of 2D motion and kinematics
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  • Knowledge of gravitational acceleration (g = 9.81 m/s²)
  • Ability to apply kinematic equations in physics
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Homework Statement



A person standing at the edge of a seaside cliff kicks a stone over the edge with a speed of 18 m/s. The cliff is 52 m above the water's surface. How long does it take for the stone to fall to the water? With what speed does it strike the water?

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution



So far, I was able to figure out the time:

dy= 1/2gt^2 where g=9.81 m/s^2
52m= 1/2*9.81*t^2
t= 3.26 seconds

I thought it would be correct to use Vy=gt to find the speed at which the stone strikes the water, therefore being (9.81 m/s^2)(3.26 s)= 31.98 m/s. But when i checked the answer key and talked to the teacher, she said that the answer was 36.889 m/s, and I was wrong.

So can someone tell me what I'm doing wrong and how to find the speed at which the stone strikes the water?
 
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You have only calculated the vertical component of the speed.

You need to do a vector addition of this with the horizontal component.
 

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