Deriving an equation for theta via the Projectile Motion Trajectory Eq

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around deriving an equation for theta in projectile motion using the trajectory equation. The original poster expresses difficulty in solving for theta despite being able to find other parameters like velocity and distance. They mention discovering relevant trigonometric identities, specifically those involving secant and tangent, which can simplify the problem to a quadratic equation. The poster notes that they found a solution on Wikipedia but still seek guidance for a deeper understanding. Overall, the conversation highlights the challenge of deriving theta and the utility of trigonometric identities in solving projectile motion equations.
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Homework Statement
Given all the other variables in this equation, find theta.
Relevant Equations
Y = x(tanθ)-[(gx^2)/(2(v0cosθ)^2)]
Perhaps I should ask this question in the math section of these forums.
But, I'm stumped and I don't think this equation is solvable?
Find theta given all the other variables:
Trajectory Eq.png
 
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Do you know some trig identities relating tan, sec, cos and their squares?
 
I know some trig identities and can lookup others.
But, it looks like I found the answer on Wikipedia. o0)
2c5c375af9d89e403690dceeb6d074eab6ed27fe

P.S. This wasn't really the homework question. I was just curious when I looked at and derived the same trajectory equation that was in my book. But, then I started wonder if it could give me the other parameters. v was easy to find, x was harder. theta is impossible at my level of intelligence/knowledge (at least without guidance).

Nonetheless, i'd be curious to see someone derive this.
 
Last edited:
lightlightsup said:
I know some trig identities and can lookup others.
But, it looks like I found the answer on Wikipedia. o0)
2c5c375af9d89e403690dceeb6d074eab6ed27fe

P.S. This wasn't really the homework question. I was just curious when I looked at and derived the same trajectory equation that was in my book. But, then I started wonder if it could give me the other parameters. v was easy to find, x was harder. theta is impossible at my level of intelligence/knowledge (at least without guidance).

Nonetheless, i'd be curious to see someone derive this.
The two that solve it are ##\frac 1\cos=sec## and ##\sec^2=1+\tan^2##. Those reduce it to a quadratic in tan.
 
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Kindly see the attached pdf. My attempt to solve it, is in it. I'm wondering if my solution is right. My idea is this: At any point of time, the ball may be assumed to be at an incline which is at an angle of θ(kindly see both the pics in the pdf file). The value of θ will continuously change and so will the value of friction. I'm not able to figure out, why my solution is wrong, if it is wrong .
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