Help With Some Physics Related Algebra (Projectile Motion) (Shot Put)

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on deriving an equation for the range (R) of a shot put ball based on projectile motion principles. The user employs the equations v_0 = R/(t*cos θ) and y = y_0 + v_0*sin θ * t + (1/2) g t^2 to relate initial speed (v), angle of release (θ), and height of release (y). The key insight is that the problem requires calculating the actual range for fixed values of v, y, and θ, rather than the maximum range. The user struggles with the algebraic manipulation necessary to solve for R.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of projectile motion principles
  • Familiarity with algebraic manipulation techniques
  • Knowledge of kinematic equations
  • Basic trigonometry, particularly sine and cosine functions
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of the range formula for projectile motion
  • Learn how to apply kinematic equations in two dimensions
  • Explore the effects of varying angle of release on projectile range
  • Practice solving algebraic equations involving trigonometric functions
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on mechanics and projectile motion, as well as educators looking for examples of algebraic applications in physics problems.

Brereton55
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Homework Statement


Hello,

My task is to derive an equation (based on projectile motion of a shot put ball) which gives the range (R) when given initial speed (v), angle of release (theta), and height of release (y)


Homework Equations


I've decided to use these equations:

[tex] v_0= \frac{R}{t*cos \theta}[/tex]

[tex] y = y_0 + v_0sin\theta* t + (1/2) g t^2[/tex]

The Attempt at a Solution



I solve [tex] v_0= \frac{R}{t*cos \theta}[/tex] and get [tex] t=\frac{R}{v_0*cos \theta}[/tex]


then I plug it into [tex] y = y_0 + v_0sin\theta* t + (1/2) g t^2[/tex] for t and make y=0 to get max range.

I just can't seem to solve the algebra though :(
 
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Welcome to PF!

Hello Brereton55! Welcome to PF! :smile:

(have a theta: θ and try using the X2 and X2 tags just above the Reply box :wink:)
Brereton55 said:
My task is to derive an equation (based on projectile motion of a shot put ball) which gives the range (R) when given initial speed (v), angle of release (theta), and height of release (y)

then I plug it into [tex] y = y_0 + v_0sin\theta* t + (1/2) g t^2[/tex] for t and make y=0 to get max range.

I just can't seem to solve the algebra though :(

Yes, that's fine …

the question isn't asking for the maximum range, only for the actual range for fixed values of v y and θ. :wink:
 

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