Calculate Golf Ball Velocity Components: x & y

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the velocity components of a golf ball hit with an 8 iron at a launch angle of 35.0 degrees and an initial velocity of 86.4 m/s. The correct horizontal (x) and vertical (y) components of the velocity are determined to be approximately 70.8 m/s and 49.6 m/s, respectively. The calculations utilize trigonometric functions, specifically sine and cosine, to resolve the velocity into its components. The values provided are confirmed to be accurate.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic trigonometry, specifically sine and cosine functions.
  • Familiarity with projectile motion concepts.
  • Knowledge of vector resolution in physics.
  • Ability to perform calculations involving angles and velocities.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of projectile motion in physics.
  • Learn how to apply trigonometric functions to resolve vectors.
  • Explore the effects of launch angle on projectile trajectories.
  • Investigate the use of simulation tools for analyzing projectile motion.
USEFUL FOR

Physics students, sports scientists, golf coaches, and anyone interested in the mechanics of projectile motion and velocity calculations.

DarkTangent
Messages
3
Reaction score
0
A golf ball leaves an 8 iron at an angle of 35.0 degrees at a velocity of 86.4 m/s. Determine the horizontal [x] and vertical [y] components of the velocity.


There really were no equations for this, I attempted to use my protractor and ruler for this problem and ended up with a triangle. I used sin and cos to find my components, but I'm not so certain.



I got 49.6 m/s for the y-component and 70.8 m/s for the x-component. Any idea if those are right?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Yes, those are right. (approximately, of course)
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
3K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
3K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
3K
Replies
11
Views
3K
  • · Replies 38 ·
2
Replies
38
Views
4K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
925
  • · Replies 21 ·
Replies
21
Views
3K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
1K
Replies
5
Views
2K