The problem involves a boy throwing a baseball directly upward and catching it 3.2 seconds later, focusing on calculating the final velocity of the ball. The subject area includes kinematics and the equations of motion under constant acceleration due to gravity.
The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring different equations and approaches to find the initial velocity needed for the ball to return after 3.2 seconds. Some guidance has been provided regarding the use of quadratic equations and the importance of correctly applying the terms in the equations.
Participants are navigating the constraints of the problem, including the need to account for the ball's return to the same height and the implications of the acceleration being negative when considering upward motion. There is also a mention of potential confusion regarding the application of the quadratic formula.
Medgirl314 said:Great, thanks! The equation I used, or a different one?
Medgirl314 said:y(t)=y0+viy∗t+(0.5∗ay)∗t2
y(3.2s)=0+0*3.2+(0.5)(-9.8y)*10.24
y(3.2s)=3.2s+(0.5)(9.8y)*10.24s
Is that right so far? What's next?