Calculating Time of Flight for a Launched Object

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the time of flight for an object launched horizontally from a height of 1.3 meters with an initial speed of 4.2 m/s. The correct time of flight is determined to be 0.52 seconds, contrasting with the incorrect calculation of 0.31 seconds. Participants emphasize the use of kinematic equations, specifically d = tv for horizontal motion and d = vit + 1/2at² for vertical motion, to solve for unknown variables. A method involving X and Y tables is recommended to organize the relevant data and ensure accurate calculations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic kinematics, including horizontal and vertical motion.
  • Familiarity with the equations of motion: d = tv and d = vit + 1/2at².
  • Knowledge of gravitational acceleration (approximately 9.81 m/s²).
  • Ability to create and interpret X and Y tables for organizing data.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation and application of kinematic equations in projectile motion.
  • Learn how to create and utilize X and Y tables for physics problems.
  • Explore the effects of varying initial velocities on time of flight in projectile motion.
  • Investigate the impact of different launch heights on the time of flight for horizontally launched objects.
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, educators teaching kinematics, and anyone interested in understanding projectile motion and time of flight calculations.

Shokatsuryou
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Homework Statement


A system is setup to launch an object horizontally off desks with an initial speed of 4.2 m/s. Height of desk is 1.3 meters.

What time of flight should be predicted for the object?

Homework Equations


Δt = (v2 - v1) / ∂ (Not too sure)

The Attempt at a Solution


1.3/4.2 = 0.31 seconds

Hello. I tried to find the time, but I keep getting the time wrong. The actual answer is 0.52s, but I think I'm going the wrong way about it :( Can someone help me understand the question more and lead me into the right direction? I'm not very good at physics.
 
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Are you aware of the X and Y table method?

Make an X and Y table
Like this

X___|___Y

In the X column, put all of your X axis information (you have velocity)

And in the Y column put down all of your Y axis information (you always have acceleration due to gravity, you have height/distance in this question as well)Now, remember that for horizontal you always use d = tv, and for vertical it's always d = vit + 1/2at^2.

Use those formulae with the information you have in the respective columns to find the unknown variables.

ALWAYS REMEMBER-
Time will be equal in both columns, it is the only factor that does not change because it's neither an X nor a Y nor a Z vector, so if you get time in one column you will effectively have time in both columns.
 
Last edited:
Ohh..! Thank you so much! You saved me!
 

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