General Physics Question -- Max height of a projectile

Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the concept of projectile motion, specifically focusing on the maximum height of a projectile and the forces acting on it during its ascent and descent. Participants explore definitions, theoretical forces, and the application of kinematic equations in this context.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about the term for the point where a projectile stops moving upward and begins to descend, suggesting "point of inflection."
  • Another participant emphasizes that, neglecting air resistance, only gravity acts on the object, resulting in constant downward acceleration.
  • There is a proposal to discuss the possibility of theoretical forces that are not yet discovered, although this is met with a reminder that speculation is not permitted in the forum.
  • A participant asks if the maximum height of a projectile can be calculated given a specific time of flight, indicating familiarity with kinematic equations.
  • Several participants provide links to resources on kinematic equations and motion, indicating a willingness to assist with the calculations.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the introduction of theoretical forces, with some advocating for sticking to established classical physics while others wish to explore new ideas. The discussion about calculating maximum height remains open, with no consensus on the specific calculations or outcomes presented.

Contextual Notes

Some participants reference kinematic equations and established physics principles, while others introduce speculative ideas about forces, leading to a mix of mainstream and theoretical discussions. The conversation reflects a range of familiarity with the subject matter, from basic concepts to more advanced theoretical considerations.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for individuals interested in projectile motion, kinematic equations, and the exploration of forces in physics, particularly those looking to refresh their knowledge or engage in theoretical discussions.

Jerret Spenst
Messages
4
Reaction score
1
When an object is thrown or propelled upwards and it meets the point at deceleration and drops; what is that point called, where the object is not moving in either direction?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Jerret Spenst said:
When an object is thrown or propelled upwards and it meets the point at deceleration and drops; what is that point called, where the object is not moving in either direction?
Welcome to the PF.

"Point of inflection?"
 
Thank you! Now in that state, could you propose that there would be a new force acting on the object or even the loss of one.
 
Jerret Spenst said:
Thank you! Now in that state, could you propose that there would be a new force acting on the object or even the loss of one.
Neglecting air resistance, there is only the force of gravity acting on the thrown object, and its acceleration (downwards) is constant.
 
True, but I'd like to discuss the possibility of theoretical forces not yet discovered or applied to general physics.
 
Jerret Spenst said:
True, but I'd like to discuss the possibility of theoretical forces not yet discovered or applied to general physics.
We don't allow speculation or theory development at the PF. We discuss mainstream science, as published in the peer-reviewed literature and mainstream textbooks.

:smile:
 
Not a problem! Thank you for the previous answer!
 
  • Like
Likes   Reactions: berkeman
  • #10
Jerret Spenst said:
True, but I'd like to discuss the possibility of theoretical forces not yet discovered or applied to general physics.
Why bother trying to introduce an extra force when the whole classical process can be calculated and predicted as accurately as you choose, using the existing classical forces - until you get to the scale of Relativity or QM.
PF protects itself (and you) from such whimsy.
 
  • Like
Likes   Reactions: berkeman
  • #11
If an object is propelled straight up from ground level, and is unaffected by wind or other forces, and it takes say, 4.6 seconds for it land back down, can it's max height be calculated? If so, what's the answer and math? Thanks!
 
  • #12
RTM said:
If an object is propelled straight up from ground level, and is unaffected by wind or other forces, and it takes say, 4.6 seconds for it land back down, can it's max height be calculated? If so, what's the answer and math? Thanks!
Are you familiar with the Kinematic Equations of Motion for Constant Acceleration (gravity)?
 
  • Like
Likes   Reactions: RTM
  • #13
Yes, but long time. Will brush up on it, and figure it out! Will be a good exercise. Thanks!
 
  • #14
The Hyperphysics website has a concise summary:

http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/hframe.html

The Wikipedia page for Equations of Motion is good too, with lots more detail. I think the equations for motion given constant acceleration are about halfway down the long Wikipedia page...
 
  • Like
Likes   Reactions: RTM
  • #15
Oops, that Hyperphysics link takes you to the top level. Click on Mechanics in the upper left, and then on Velocity and Acceleration...
 
  • Like
Likes   Reactions: RTM
  • #16
thank you.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 25 ·
Replies
25
Views
4K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 60 ·
3
Replies
60
Views
7K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K