A simple physics problem [frame of reference]

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on a physics problem involving a large box sliding down an inclined plane at an angle Ɵ, with a particle projected inside the box at an initial speed 'u' and angle α. The solutions provided are: (a) the distance along the bottom of the box where the particle lands is calculated as u²sin(2α) / gcos(Ɵ), and (b) the speed of the box with respect to the ground at the moment of projection is ucos(Ɵ + α) / cos(Ɵ). A question regarding the validity of assuming α + Ɵ = 90 degrees was raised but deemed inappropriate for the context of the discussion.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of projectile motion principles
  • Knowledge of inclined plane dynamics
  • Familiarity with trigonometric identities
  • Basic grasp of Newtonian physics
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of projectile motion equations
  • Explore the effects of friction on inclined planes
  • Learn about reference frames in classical mechanics
  • Investigate the relationship between angle of projection and range
USEFUL FOR

Physics students, educators, and enthusiasts interested in understanding projectile motion and dynamics on inclined planes.

caspernorth
Messages
27
Reaction score
0
A large heavy box is sliding without friction down a smooth plane of inclination Ɵ. From a point P on the bottom of the box, a particle is projected inside the box. The initial speed of the particle with respect to the box is 'u' and the direction of projection makes an angle α with the bottom as shown in the figure.
______________________________________…
a : Find the distance along the bottom of the box between the point of projection P and the point Q where the particle lands [assume that the particle does not hit any other surface of the box. Neglect the air resistance]

b: If the horizontal displacement of the particle as seen by an observer on the ground is zero, find the speed of the box with respect to the ground at the instant when the particle was projected.
______________________________________…
http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/834/uploadv.jpg/
______________________________________…
Answers :
a : u^2sin2α / g cosƟ
b : ucos(Ɵ + α ) / cosƟ

I could not reach answer b, is alpha + theta = 90 degree a valid assumption in this case?
this is not a homework question, I just saw this over the internet
 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
You will probably get better responses if you post this in the homework section. Even though it is not homework it is certainly homework-style.
 

Similar threads

Replies
34
Views
2K
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
Replies
5
Views
3K
  • · Replies 17 ·
Replies
17
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
Replies
10
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
6K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
3K
  • · Replies 20 ·
Replies
20
Views
2K