Free fall without a lot of info.

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves a ball thrown horizontally from a height of 65 meters, with an initial speed of 16 m/s. The objective is to determine the time it takes for the ball to land in the sea below.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to separate the x and y components of motion and apply a kinematic equation. They express confusion over the number of unknowns involved, particularly regarding the angle of launch.
  • One participant questions the launch angle for a horizontally thrown projectile, suggesting a need for clarification on the problem setup.
  • Another participant shares their experience with language barriers affecting their understanding of the terminology used in the problem.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring the implications of the problem's setup and the terminology involved. There is no explicit consensus, but questions are being raised that may guide further understanding.

Contextual Notes

The original poster notes a lack of information regarding the angle of launch, which is typically assumed to be zero for horizontal motion. Additionally, language differences are acknowledged as a potential barrier to comprehension.

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Homework Statement



A ball is thrown horizontally at 16m/s from a clifftop 65m above the sea level.

Find
the time to land

Homework Equations



distance = Vi*t + at^2/2


The Attempt at a Solution



I separated x and y components. And tried to plug them in this formula. I thought maybe I will have 2 unknowns and will then resolve it by plugging the equation in the other. But I realized I had 3 unknowns since they don't give me the angle. So, I can't find the components of the initial speed.

Maybe, I am using the wrong formula ?

Thanks in advance !
 
Physics news on Phys.org
"A ball is thrown horizontally..." What's the launch angle for a horizontally thrown projectile?
 
Oh wow. My problem is that, I've been in french school since I am a kid. Now that I am in an English college for the first time, all the terms and words are different. Thanks !
 
Taz. said:
Oh wow. My problem is that, I've been in french school since I am a kid. Now that I am in an English college for the first time, all the terms and words are different. Thanks !

"It's like those French have a different word for everything!" -- Steve Martin :smile:
 

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