Conceptual questions about projectile motion

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the principles of projectile motion, specifically regarding launch and landing angles. It is established that if a projectile is launched and lands at the same height, the launch and landing angles are identical. Conversely, if launched from a different height, the angles differ. When a projectile impacts the ground at a 45-degree angle, it indicates that the final horizontal and vertical components of velocity are equal, but the launch angle remains relevant only when the launch and landing heights are the same.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of projectile motion principles
  • Familiarity with kinematic equations, specifically x = vocos(theta)t and vfy = vosin(theta) - gt
  • Knowledge of horizontal and vertical component separation in motion analysis
  • Basic grasp of trigonometric functions related to angles
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the effects of varying launch heights on projectile trajectories
  • Explore the derivation and application of kinematic equations in projectile motion
  • Learn about the significance of the 45-degree launch angle in maximizing range
  • Investigate the impact of air resistance on projectile motion calculations
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Students studying physics, educators teaching mechanics, and anyone interested in understanding the dynamics of projectile motion.

vivekfan
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Homework Statement


If the projectile is launched and lands at the same level. Then the angle is the same at launch and landing, correct? And if the projectile is launched from a different height, then the angle of launch is different than the angle of landing? In such a situation, if it says that a projectile hits the ground at an angle of 45 degrees, that tells you that final horizontal and vertical components are equal, right? But in calculating those components, you would still use the launch angle?


Homework Equations



x= vocos(theta)t
vfy= vosin(theta)-gt

The Attempt at a Solution



I have outlined my views above. I just need to confirm that I am thinking about the situations correctly.
 
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But in calculating those components, you would still use the launch angle?

Not unless it was landing at the same level it was launched at.

If the level is different then the horizontal component is the same, but the vertical component of velocity is necessarily different, meaning that the |v| and the angle are necessarily different from the original |v| and angle of launch.
 
Yes, I think all you wrote is correct.
The main thing in all these problems is to do the horizontal and vertical parts of the motion separately. Use x = vt horizontally and almost always y = volt + .5at^2 and Vy = Vo + at vertically.
 

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