Gravitational Motion: Find 2 Objects' Height Above Ground

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves two objects in gravitational motion: one is thrown downward from a height of 85 m with an initial speed of 19 m/s, and the other is propelled upward from ground level with a speed of 54 m/s. The goal is to determine the height at which the two objects will meet above the ground, given the acceleration due to gravity is 9.8 m/s².

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the need to set equations equal to find a common variable for the heights of both objects. There is mention of using kinematic equations for constant acceleration, and some participants express uncertainty about how to apply these equations correctly given the initial velocities of the objects.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring various kinematic equations and their applicability to the problem. Some guidance has been offered regarding the relevant equations, but there is no explicit consensus on the approach to take.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the importance of defining a coordinate system and maintaining consistent signs in their calculations. There is an acknowledgment that the numerical work is challenging without the proper equations.

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Homework Statement



An object is thrown downward with an initial speed of 19 m/s from a height of 85 m above the ground. At the same instant, a second object is propelled vertically from ground level with a speed of 54 m/s .

The acceleration of gravity is 9.8 m/s^2 .

At what height above the ground will the two objects pass each other? Answer in units of m.

Homework Equations



Distance Fallen By Obj @ Free Fall= (gt^2)/2

The Attempt at a Solution



I honestly don't know how to start off besides setting two sides of an equation equal to each other and finding a common variable.
 
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The equation you list is valid for an object with zero initial velocity, which neither of your objects have.

Are you familiar with the basic kinematic equations for constant acceleration which relate acceleration, initial velocity, time, distance, and final velocity?
 
I'm familiar with all these equations.

The problem is actually very easy to visualize and understand, but the numerical work can't be done without the proper equations

Vf=Vo + gt where Vf is final velocity and Vo is 0 (at the top of the projectile curve) although this also isn't very useful

Vavg= (Vf-Vo)/2

etc.

but i honestly don't know what to work with. thus, I'm asking for help

please explain how to solve this question
 
The relevant equation is

[tex]y=y_0 + v_{0y} t + \frac{1}{2}a_{y}t^2[/tex]

For some initial height, vertical velocity, and vertical acceleration. In applying this equation, be sure to define a coordinate system and keep all your signs consistent!
 

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