Constant Acceleration; Dynamics

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the constant acceleration required for a catapult on an aircraft carrier to achieve a launch velocity of 188 mi/hr over a distance of 299 ft. The equation used is V^2 = 2AD, where the user initially calculated an acceleration of 14232.9518 G's, which was deemed excessively high. The error identified was in the conversion from miles per hour squared to feet per second squared, emphasizing the importance of accurate unit conversion in physics calculations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of kinematic equations, specifically V^2 = 2AD.
  • Proficiency in unit conversion between miles per hour and feet per second.
  • Basic knowledge of acceleration and its measurement in G's.
  • Familiarity with physics concepts related to projectile motion.
NEXT STEPS
  • Review unit conversion techniques for velocity and acceleration.
  • Study the implications of using kinematic equations in real-world applications.
  • Learn about the physics of catapults and their design considerations.
  • Explore advanced topics in dynamics, such as forces acting on objects in motion.
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for physics students, engineers involved in aerospace design, and anyone interested in the dynamics of projectile motion and acceleration calculations.

allyfranken
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Homework Statement



Problem: Calculate the constant acceleration a in g’s which the catapult of an aircraft carrier must provide to produce a launch velocity of 188 mi/hr in a distance of 299 ft. Assume that the carrier is at anchor.

Homework Equations



V^2 = 2AD

The Attempt at a Solution



Okay so I got an answer of 14232.9518 G's. This seems far too large.
I converted feet to miles first and got 35344 mi^2/hr^2 = 2A(.0566) solving for A I got A = 312,226.1484 mi/hr^2 then converted to G's. What am I doing wrong here?
 
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The problem lies in your conversion from mi/h² to ft/s². They are 3600 seconds in an hour and you have to square it.
 

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