Find Angle of Projectile: Golf Ball 50m High & Away

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves determining the initial angle of a golf ball projected towards a building window that is 50 meters high and 50 meters away from the launch point. The subject area pertains to projectile motion and kinematics.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to solve the problem by working backwards, assuming the final vertical velocity is zero at the maximum height. They present calculations for initial velocities and the angle of projection. Some participants question the assumption regarding the final vertical velocity, prompting clarification about the conditions of the projectile's motion.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring the validity of the original poster's assumptions and calculations. Clarifications have been made regarding the conditions under which the projectile reaches the window, and some participants express agreement with the approach taken.

Contextual Notes

There is a noted assumption that the golf ball hits the window at its maximum height, which influences the calculations and reasoning presented. The discussion reflects on the implications of this assumption for the solution process.

physicsnobrain
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Homework Statement


A golf ball is hit from the ground into a building window 50m high and 50m away from starting point. Find the initial angle.

The Attempt at a Solution


I will work backwards for this question. I assume that the final y velocity (Vy) is 0m/s.

the first equation I do is: Vy^2= Viy^2 + 2ay(y)
I solve this equation for Viy and I get 31.32m/s.

Next I use the equation: Vy = Viy + ayt
I solve this equation for time and I get 3.192s.

Next I use d = vt and in respects to x. I solve for v (being the initial x velocity). For this I get Vix to be 15.66m/s.

Now I have initial x and y velocity and use inverse tan to solve for angle. I get the initial angle to be: 63 degrees.

Are my numbers and method correct?
 
Last edited:
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I believe my steps are correct.
 
Last edited:
Why do you assume that the final vertical velocity is zero?
 
The final y velocity I assume to be zero. I forgot to add in a part where it said that it hit the window at its max height of motion.

Given these circumstances I am correct, no?
 
With the clarification, your solution is correct.
 

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