Finding An Initial Speed, Intro to Physics Question

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the initial speed of a coin tossed vertically to a height of 2.8 meters, starting from a height of 1.2 meters. The relevant physics concepts include gravitational acceleration, which is definitively -9.8 m/s², and the conservation of energy method, which simplifies the calculation. Participants clarify that using the conservation of energy is preferable for this scenario, allowing for a straightforward determination of the initial speed without delving into force analysis.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of gravitational acceleration (-9.8 m/s²)
  • Familiarity with the conservation of energy principle
  • Basic knowledge of kinematic equations
  • Ability to manipulate algebraic equations
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STEF2098
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A boy tosses a coin straight up to 2.8 m. Suppose the height when the coin leaves his hand is 1.2 m. What was the initial speed of the coin when it left his hand?

I'm just confused as to what equation to use. And I don't know whether to assume the acceleration is -9.8 m/s^2. Thanks.
 
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You can do this either with forces, or with conservation of energy. The conservation of energy method is much simpler, but I'm not sure if you've learned it yet.
 

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