Finding Initial Velocity: Projectile Motion Problem

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on solving a projectile motion problem where a particle is projected horizontally with initial velocity components of 2u and u m/s. The particle lands 80 meters away, leading to the conclusion that u equals 14 m/s. The calculations involve horizontal motion equations, specifically 2u = 80/t, and vertical motion equations using s = ut + (1/2)at², where acceleration due to gravity is -9.8 m/s². The participant seeks clarification on their calculations, particularly in substituting time into the equations to derive the correct value of u.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of projectile motion principles
  • Familiarity with kinematic equations
  • Basic knowledge of horizontal and vertical velocity components
  • Concept of gravitational acceleration (g = 9.8 m/s²)
NEXT STEPS
  • Review kinematic equations for projectile motion
  • Learn how to derive time of flight in projectile motion
  • Explore the relationship between horizontal distance and initial velocity
  • Study examples of projectile motion problems with varying angles
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, educators teaching projectile motion concepts, and anyone interested in solving kinematic problems related to motion under gravity.

brandon26
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A particle is projected on a horizontal ground and moves freely under gravity.
The horizontal and vertical components of the initial velocity are 2u and u ms^1 respectively.

The ball lands a distance 80m from the point of projection.

Show that u=14

This is what I did:

Taking motion in the horizontal plane------

2u = 80/t

Taking motion in the vertical plane-----

displacement (s) =0
acceleration (a)= -9.8
initial velocity (u) = u
time of motion (t) = t

therefore using s=ut +(1/2)at^2

I get: 4.9t=u

substituting this into the first equation should give me the correct value of u, but it doesnt. Can someone tell me where i went wrong?
:confused: :confused:
 
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[tex]0 = ut - 4.9t^2[/tex]
Assuming that t is non-zero, since that is an obvious solution, [tex]t = \frac{2u}{g}[/tex], therefore, since velocity in the horzontial plane is constant, [tex]4u^2 = 80g[/tex], then solve that
 
Why doesn't it? If u= 4.9 t, then t= u/4.9. Putting that into
2u= 80/t, 2u= (80)(4.9)/u so u2= 40(4.9). What do you think that is?
 

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