Find Height at 0.5v Velocity for Projectile

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on determining the height \( h \) at which a projectile has a speed of \( 0.5v \). The conservation of energy principle is applied, using the equations \( K_1 + U_1 = K_2 + U_2 \), where \( K \) represents kinetic energy and \( U \) represents potential energy. The user initially miscalculated the height, arriving at an incorrect answer of \( -\frac{v^2}{8g} \). The correct approach involves evaluating the total energy at launch and at the specified height, leading to the conclusion that the projectile's speed and height must be analyzed at two distinct points in its trajectory.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of conservation of energy principles in physics
  • Familiarity with kinetic energy formula \( K = \frac{1}{2}mv^2 \)
  • Knowledge of potential energy formula \( U = mgh \)
  • Basic algebra for solving equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Review the derivation of the conservation of energy in projectile motion
  • Study the implications of maximum height in vertical projectile motion
  • Learn how to apply energy conservation to different points in projectile trajectories
  • Explore the effects of varying initial velocities on projectile height calculations
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Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on mechanics and projectile motion, as well as educators seeking to clarify energy conservation concepts in their teaching.

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Homework Statement


At what height h above the ground does the projectile have a speed of 0.5v?


Homework Equations


K_1 + U_1 = K_2 + U_2
K = 1/2mv^2
U = mgh

The Attempt at a Solution


I made the point where the speed is .5v = point 1, and the maximum height = point 2.

Point 1:
K_1 = 1/2m(v_1x^2 + v_1y^2)
U_1 = mgh

Point 2:
K_2 = 1/2m(v_2x^2 + v_2y^2)
U_2 = mg(v^2/2g) = (mv^2)/2 <--maximum height, I got this from the previous part.

Then it's just plug and chug into the eqn K_1 + U_1 = K_2 + U_2 but I came out with the wrong answer which is (-v^2/8g). Oh I took out the v_1x^2 and the v_2x^2 because the x component remains constant throughout and I also took v_2y^2 because it's 0 at maximum height.


I must have done something wrong somewhere but I have no idea (probably my setup) so pls help?
 
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Is that the whole problem statement? If it is, I'm assuming that this projectile is launched vertically from the ground with speed v.

In using the conservation of energy, find the total energy at the time of launch and at the time of interest. That is, call point "1" the time where speed = v and height = 0.

Then make point "2" the time where height = h (which is what you are solving for) and speed = .5v

I hope that helps. Let us know if you get stuck again.
 
Thanks. I did that at first but then got stuck somehow, so I moved to maximum height. >< But I got it now. Thanks again.
 

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