Finding an angle of trajectory from a tangential launch.

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the launch angle of a projectile from a tangential launch. The participant utilized energy conservation principles, specifically equating potential energy (PE) and kinetic energy (KE) to derive the velocity before launch. The challenge lies in determining the angle of launch, which is defined as the angle between the velocity vector and the horizontal axis. Key concepts include the relationship between tangential velocity and circular motion, as well as the geometric properties of angles in projectile motion.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic kinematics equations
  • Familiarity with potential energy (PE) and kinetic energy (KE) concepts
  • Knowledge of circular motion dynamics
  • Ability to analyze angles in projectile motion
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of launch angles in projectile motion
  • Learn about energy conservation in mechanical systems
  • Explore the relationship between tangential velocity and circular motion
  • Investigate the application of trigonometric functions in determining angles
USEFUL FOR

Students in physics, educators teaching mechanics, and anyone interested in understanding projectile motion and energy conservation principles.

Jae
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Homework Statement


ballLaunch.PNG


Homework Equations


1/2mv^2, mgh, and basic kinematics equations

The Attempt at a Solution


I set the height = 0 at moment before the launch.

To get the velocity, I used:
energy before the ball starts accelerating (PE) = energy right before the ball leaves the ark (KE)

I'm stuck on Part B, because I'm having trouble getting the angle of the launch.
I set the x-axis as the ground.

Thank you for your help.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
The launch angle is the angle the velocity encloses with the horizontal. And you know, that the velocity is tangent to the track. You also know that the velocity around a circular track is perpendicular to the radius.
launchangle.JPG
 

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