Horizontal Projectiles. Degree or Radian mode in calculator?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on solving a physics problem involving horizontal projectiles, specifically determining the initial speed of a pelican dropping a fish from a height of 5.4 m, which travels 8.0 m horizontally. Participants emphasize the importance of using the correct calculator mode—degrees or radians—based on the problem's requirements. If angles are provided in degrees or results are needed in degrees, the calculator should be set to Degrees; conversely, it should be set to Radians for problems involving radian measures. Conversion between the two modes is also possible using appropriate constants.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of horizontal projectile motion
  • Familiarity with basic trigonometric functions
  • Knowledge of calculator settings for degrees and radians
  • Ability to convert between degrees and radians
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the equations of motion for horizontal projectiles
  • Learn how to use the physics equations to calculate initial velocity
  • Explore the conversion formulas between degrees and radians
  • Practice solving similar problems involving projectile motion
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, educators teaching projectile motion concepts, and anyone needing to understand the application of degrees and radians in calculations.

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Homework Statement


It's a worksheet with questions like : A pelican flying along a horizontal path drops a fish from a height of 5.4 m. The fish travels 8.0 m horizontally before it hits the water below. What is the pelican's initial speed?

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


[/B]
So should I have my calculator in radian or degree mode?
 
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Use whichever mode the problem requires: If given angles are in degrees or if a result is required in degrees, set the calculator to Degrees. Set it to radians if you need to work with radians. Also, you can always convert from one to the other via suitable constants.
 

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