A particle moving in parabola (Kinematics)

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on calculating the velocity and acceleration of a particle moving along the parabola y = x² at the point x = 2/3 m, with a constant horizontal velocity vx = 3 m/s. The user initially calculated vy incorrectly, leading to an incorrect magnitude of velocity and direction. The correct calculations reveal that the velocity is 5 m/s with a direction of approximately 53°, while the acceleration is 18 m/s² directed in the positive y direction. The user acknowledges a mistake in deriving vy and realizes that the derivative represents the slope, not the y value. This highlights the importance of correctly applying kinematic equations in solving such problems.
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Homework Statement



A particle is moving along a parabola y = x2 so that at any time vx = 3 ms-1. Calculate the magnitude and direction of velocity and acceleration of the particle at the point x = 2/3 m.

Homework Equations



Kinematics

The Attempt at a Solution



vx = 3 (given)
y = x2 so vy = 2x

ax = 0
ay = 2vx

When x = 2/3, vx = 3 and vy = 4/3
So v = √{32 + (4/3)2} = 3.3
Direction tan-1{(4/3)/3} = tan-1(4/6) = 33.7°

When x = 2/3, ax = 0 and ay = 2 x 3 = 6
So a = √{02 + 62} = 6
Direction in +y direction

Above is how I tried to solve the problem. But then when I checked the answer, I found
v = 5, direction of velocity tan-1(4/3) or 53°, a = 18 and direction of acceleration +y

Would someone please help me pointing out my mistakes?
 
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when x = 2/3, vx =3 and vy/vx = 4/3
 
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derivative is the slope, not the y value.
 
Oh I should have written vy = 2xvx
That was a super silly mistake. :shy:
Thanks!
 
No problemo XD
 
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