Finding initial velocity of basketball

AI Thread Summary
To find the initial velocity of a basketball shot from a height of 2.50 m at a 30-degree angle, with the hoop 3.00 m high and 6.00 m away, the necessary calculations involve both horizontal and vertical motion components. The horizontal distance (delta x) is 6 m, while the vertical distance (delta y) is 0.5 m. The equations of motion are applied, considering acceleration due to gravity as -9.8 m/s². The correct initial velocity required for the ball to reach the basket is determined to be 8.91 m/s. The discussion emphasizes the importance of using the right equations to eliminate variables effectively.
jk2455
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A basketball player makes a shot from a height of 2.50 m at an angle of 30 degrees above
the horizontal. The horizontal distance between the player and the hoop is 6.00 m. The
hoop is 3.00m above the ground. Find the magnitude of the initial velocity of the ball
which will cause it to go into the basket is.

answer is 8.91m/s

Homework Statement


given:
x direction--> delta x=6m Vi=Vcos30 a=0
y direction--> delta y=0.5m Vi=Vsin30 a= -9.8

Homework Equations



v^2=Vi^2+2a*x ?( i think|)

The Attempt at a Solution



i am a bit confused a little help please help
 
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welcome to pf!

hi jk2455! welcome to pf! :smile:

(have a delta: ∆ and a degree: ° and try using the X2 and X2 icons just above the Reply box :wink:)
jk2455 said:
x direction--> delta x=6m Vi=Vcos30 a=0
y direction--> delta y=0.5m Vi=Vsin30 a= -9.8

v^2=Vi^2+2a*x ?( i think|)

fine so far :smile:

but you only have vi s and a, not vf

(and you don't want to find vf and then eliminate it … that won't work … you want to find t and then eliminate it :wink:),

so instead of vf2 = vi2 + 2as, you need one of the other https://www.physicsforums.com/library.php?do=view_item&itemid=204" equations :wink:
 
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ok thanks ill try that
and thanks for the note on top it will make things a bit easier
(have a delta: ∆ and a degree: ° and try using the X2 and X2 icons just above the Reply box )
:smile:
 
thanks i got it
 
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