Calculating Time and Distance of a Baseball's Horizontal Motion at 161 km/h

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SUMMARY

A baseball is pitched horizontally at a speed of 161 km/h, which converts to approximately 44.7 m/s. The distance to the batter is 18.3 m, leading to a travel time of 0.2 seconds for the ball to cover the first half of the distance. This time is also applicable for the second half of the distance, as the ball maintains a constant velocity. The discussion highlights that the time of 0.2 seconds is crucial for calculating the vertical distance the ball falls under gravity during both halves of its travel.

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A baseball leaves a pitcher's hand horizontally at a speed of 161 km/h. The distance to the batter is 18.3 m. Neglect air resistance.

(a) How long does it take for the ball to travel the first half of that distance?

161*.27777=44.7m/s

t=m/v=(18.3/2)/44.7=.2 seconds

wrong...

(b) How long does it take for the ball to travel the second half of that distance?
should be the same as (a) right?
(c) How far does the ball fall under gravity during the first half?
can't do without time
(d) How far does the ball fall under gravity during the second half?
can't do without time
 
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0.2 s looks correct since the ball travels at constant velocity (neglecting air resistance).

Solve b with t = 0.2 s

and then solve c with the appropriate time 0.2 s later.
 

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