Conceptual problem with projectile motion

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a conceptual problem related to projectile motion, specifically focusing on the calculation of maximum height in a projectile's trajectory. The original poster attempts to derive the maximum height using the y-component of velocity and questions their approach.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster describes their method for calculating maximum height, including setting the y-component of velocity to zero at the peak and integrating to find the y position. They express confusion about a potential error in their algebraic manipulation.

Discussion Status

Participants are engaged in clarifying the original poster's approach, with some questioning the use of specific numerical values instead of variables. There is a back-and-forth regarding the implications of using 'g' versus numerical constants like 9.8, indicating an exploration of different interpretations of the problem.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the potential confusion arising from the use of specific numerical values in place of the variable for acceleration due to gravity, suggesting that this may complicate the reasoning process. The original poster's intent to practice despite having the correct answer is also acknowledged.

1MileCrash
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Homework Statement



[PLAIN]http://img23.imageshack.us/img23/4554/physicshomework.png


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



I have the right answer because it is obvious, but I wanted to practice working this out regardless, and I have something slightly different for hmax.

First, I found the y-component of velocity to be:

V_{o}sin\theta_{o} - 9.8t

It follows that at the highest point, that this is equal to 0. So I set it equal to 0 and solved for t.

t = \frac{V_{o}sin\theta_{o}}{9.8}

Integrating my y velocity gives y position:

y(t) = (V_{o}sin\theta_{o})t - 4.9t^{2}

And solving for our time gives me:

h_{max} = V_{o}sin\theta_{o}(\frac{V_{o}sin\theta_{o}}{9.8}) - 4.9(\frac{V_{o}sin\theta_{o}}{9.8})^{2}

Where did I go wrong?

Thanks!

EDIT nevermind! They are the same, just had to do some algebra.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
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The first thing you did wrong is writing 9.8 instead of g. If you go back and fix that and do a little algebra you'll see you already have the same answer as in the image.
 
I'm not sure why you think that's wrong, I didn't forget halfway through the problem that they are the same..
 
1MileCrash said:
I'm not sure why you think that's wrong, I didn't forget halfway through the problem that they are the same..

It's wrong because now you have to change 9.8 back to g and 4.9 back to g/2. Why didn't you just leave it g to begin with? That's what I mean by 'wrong'. It's sort of a tactical error. You're making life complicated by leaving numbers floating around instead of 'g'.
 
Not sure, I just wrote it that way without thinking. What I meant was that I didn't get to the end and say "they have g where I have 9.8, what is going on."
 

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