Homework Help based on the equations of motion

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a problem involving the equations of motion for a particle projected vertically upwards at an initial speed of 30 m/s. Participants are tasked with calculating the time to reach maximum height, the times at which the particle is 40 m above the point of projection, and the times at which it is moving at 15 m/s.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the calculation of maximum height and the time to reach it, using the equation v^2 = u^2 + 2as. There is an acknowledgment of needing to find two times for when the particle is at 40 m and when it is moving at 15 m/s, with some confusion about how to approach these parts. Questions arise regarding the interpretation of speed versus velocity and the implications of the squared term in the equations.

Discussion Status

Some participants have successfully calculated the maximum height and the time to reach it, while others express confusion about the subsequent parts of the problem. Guidance has been offered regarding the need to consider both the ascent and descent of the projectile when determining the times at which it is at specific heights or speeds.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the distinction between speed and velocity, emphasizing that the problem's phrasing regarding speed may lead to different interpretations of the projectile's motion. There is a recognition that the problem requires careful consideration of the equations of motion and the conditions under which they apply.

risingabove
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Homework Statement


A particle is projected vertically upwards at 30 m/s. Calculate (a) how long it takes to reach its maximum height, (b) the two times at which it is 40 m above the point of projection, (c) the two times at which it is moving at 15 m/s.2. Homework Equations [/b
final velocity (v)
initial velocity (u)
acceleration due to gravity (a) = 10m/s^2
time (t)
Distance or displacement (s)
v^2=u^2 + 2as
v=u+at
s=ut+1/2 at^2
s=1/2(u+v)t

The Attempt at a Solution


I first find the maximum height, this is where i used the equation v^2=u^2 +2as
0^2=30^2 + 2(10)s
s=45 m maximum height

then i used that value and plugged into the equation to find time
45= 1/2 (30+0)t
t= 3seconds

therefore total time is 3 seconds for the particle to reach its maximum height.

part (b) is where i am stuck

however i move on to part (c)
and i plugged in the values in the equation
15=30-10t
t=1.5 seconds

however the question asked for two (2) times. so i am also stuck with finding the second time...
 
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risingabove said:

Homework Statement


A particle is projected vertically upwards at 30 m/s. Calculate (a) how long it takes to reach its maximum height, (b) the two times at which it is 40 m above the point of projection, (c) the two times at which it is moving at 15 m/s.


2. Homework Equations [/b
final velocity (v)
initial velocity (u)
acceleration due to gravity (a) = 10m/s^2
time (t)
Distance or displacement (s)
v^2=u^2 + 2as
v=u+at
s=ut+1/2 at^2
s=1/2(u+v)t


The Attempt at a Solution


I first find the maximum height, this is where i used the equation v^2=u^2 +2as
0^2=30^2 + 2(10)s
s=45 m maximum height

then i used that value and plugged into the equation to find time
45= 1/2 (30+0)t
t= 3seconds

therefore total time is 3 seconds for the particle to reach its maximum height.

part (b) is where i am stuck

however i move on to part (c)
and i plugged in the values in the equation
15=30-10t
t=1.5 seconds

however the question asked for two (2) times. so i am also stuck with finding the second time...


Welcome to the PF.

When they are asking for 2 times, one will be on the way up, and the other on the way down. There is a squared term in the equation for the vertical motion, and you should be able to use both roots in solving for the two times. Does that help?
 
no sorry I am lost...
 
risingabove said:
no sorry I am lost...

When the problem says, "...it is moving at 15 m/s", this is giving you a value for the speed of the projectile.

A speed of 15 m/s can mean the projectile is going up (+15 m/s) or down (-15 m/s). Speeds don't have directions associated with them, velocities do :wink:
 

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