Calculating Acceleration of Gravity w/ Kinematics

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the acceleration of gravity using kinematic equations. It establishes that the magnitude of gravity, denoted as g, can be determined using the formula g = 8h/(Ta^2 - Tb^2), where Ta and Tb are the times taken for a body to pass two horizontal lines A and B, respectively. The participants emphasize the need to express initial velocities Va and Vb in terms of g and the time variables Ta and Tb, utilizing the kinematic equation Vb^2 = Va^2 + 2gh for further calculations. The discussion provides a clear path for solving the problem through algebraic manipulation of these equations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of kinematic equations, specifically s = vt + 0.5at^2
  • Familiarity with the concept of acceleration and its relation to velocity
  • Basic knowledge of algebra for manipulating equations
  • Ability to interpret and analyze motion diagrams
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of kinematic equations in physics
  • Learn how to apply the kinematic equation Vb^2 = Va^2 + 2gh in practical scenarios
  • Explore the concept of free fall and its implications on gravity measurement
  • Investigate the effects of air resistance on projectile motion
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, educators teaching kinematics, and anyone interested in understanding the principles of gravity measurement through projectile motion.

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Homework Statement


The acceleration of gravity can be measured by project a body upward and measuring the time that it takes to pass two given points in both directions. Show that if the time the body takes to pass a horizontal line A in both directions is Ta and the time to go by a second line B in both directions is Tb then assuming that the acceleration is constant, its magnitude is g = 8h/(Ta^2-Tb^2)

Homework Equations


y = y0 + 1/2 g t^2 + volt


The Attempt at a Solution



There is a diagram where A is the lower position and B is the higher position, they are separated by a distance h.

I found Ta = -2/g vy and Tb = -vy +- sqrt(vy^2 - 2gh)
but I really don't know where to go after this...
If I want acceleration a = dv/dt and v = dx/dt but I'm not quite sure what to do next... If I say delta T = Ta - Tb but that's all i can get.
 
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You'll need 2 equations to solve this problem:

1. Express the initial velocities Va and Vb as a function f(g,ta) and f(g,tb) respectively. This can be done using the s = vt + 0.5at^2 kinematics equation.

2. Use the kinematics equation: Vb^2 = Va^2 + 2gh

From equation 2, you can substitute out Vb and Va into a function purely of g and t. From there, it's just algebra. Good luck.
 

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