Determining the height an arrow reaches when shot from a bow

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the height an arrow reaches when shot from a bow, with participants analyzing the effects of kinetic friction and the initial launch conditions. One user initially miscalculated the height as 81 meters due to misunderstanding the problem statement, which was later clarified to be 82 meters when viewed upside down. The conversation emphasizes the importance of considering the distance the arrow travels while being accelerated by the bow, which affects the final height achieved. Ultimately, the correct interpretation of the problem leads to a more accurate understanding of the physics involved.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of projectile motion and gravitational potential energy (GPE)
  • Familiarity with the concepts of kinetic friction and its effects on motion
  • Basic knowledge of bow mechanics and energy transfer during launch
  • Ability to interpret problem statements and diagrams accurately
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  • Research the physics of projectile motion in detail
  • Learn about the effects of kinetic friction on projectile trajectories
  • Study energy conservation principles in mechanical systems
  • Explore advanced bow mechanics and their impact on arrow performance
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Physics students, educators, archery enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the mechanics of projectile motion and energy transfer in sports.

otownsend
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User reminded to post schoolwork-type questions in the Homework Help forum and to use the Template there
Hi,

I'm trying to attempt the "Try it yourself" on the bottom-right corner of the image attached, but I am struggling.

As you see in the other image I attached, in one scenario I took into account the kinetic friction (which did not lead me anywhere since I needed to know the velocity of the arrow once in the air), and then in another scenario I did not take it into account (which led me to the wrong answer of about 81 meters). The actual answer is 28 meters.

I hope someone can help me solve this question!:/

IMG_20181112_132541.jpg

IMG_20181112_132416.jpg
 

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otownsend said:
Hi,

I'm trying to attempt the "Try it yourself" on the bottom-right corner of the image attached, but I am struggling.

As you see in the other image I attached, in one scenario I took into account the kinetic friction (which did not lead me anywhere since I needed to know the velocity of the arrow once in the air), and then in another scenario I did not take it into account (which led me to the wrong answer of about 81 meters). The actual answer is 28 meters.

I hope someone can help me solve this question!:/

View attachment 233862
View attachment 233863
Actually, in the problem statement, the answer is printed upside down. Take another look at it. You interpreted it as 28m, but it is actually 82m.
 
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tnich said:
the answer is printed upside down.
Amazing that this apparently worked here!
 
The height achieved should actually be just a tad less than what they gave since they failed to take into account the distance the arrow rose while being accelerated by the bow.
 
gneill said:
The height achieved should actually be just a tad less than what they gave since they failed to take into account the distance the arrow rose while being accelerated by the bow.
Doesn't that cancel out? Yes, it made the launch speed a little less but that matches the contribution made to the eventual height. Essentially, initial stored energy equals GPE achieved.
 
haruspex said:
Doesn't that cancel out? Yes, it made the launch speed a little less but that matches the contribution made to the eventual height. Essentially, initial stored energy equals GPE achieved.
I suppose, If you count the distance of the bow stretch as part of the height achieved. I was thinking that the height desired was the height achieved by the projectile after launch.
 
Oh wow -_______- sorry about not turning my head properly side-ways... I'll be more careful next time before I make a post.
 
otownsend said:
Oh wow -_______- sorry about not turning my head properly side-ways... I'll be more careful next time before I make a post.
Hah!. Sideways wouldn't do in this case. Completely upside down is the necessary contortion. :smile:
 

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