How can I use the range equation to find the initial velocity of a projectile?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the initial velocity of a projectile, specifically a football kicked with a known hang time and horizontal distance. Participants are exploring the application of the range equation and the breakdown of motion into components.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss using the horizontal and vertical components of motion, questioning how to apply the equations for each direction. There are attempts to set up equations based on hang time and distance, with some confusion about how to incorporate vertical motion into their calculations.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided guidance on using specific equations for vertical and horizontal motion. There is an acknowledgment of different interpretations of the problem, and while one participant reports success with their calculations, others are still seeking clarity on the steps involved.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention the hang time and horizontal distance as key parameters, but there is uncertainty regarding the correct application of the equations and the signs of acceleration due to gravity. Some participants express a need for further clarification on the vertical component of the motion.

Havenater23
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1. A football is kicked so that is had a hang time for 4.6 s and hits the ground 23m down the field ?
What was the velocity of the football when it was kicked?
2. I used the Dx=Vx(t), don't know what to use after that.
3. Can someone show step by step how to get this, I'm having trouble trying to get an answer.
Can anyone just show me the equation I would use after that. I know I can find the xi and xf , but how do I find the yi or yf?
 
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Think about this problem in terms of components:

hang time is vertical, distance is horizontal. you should also used the equation Dy(t) = -.5at^2 + Vit + y0. from there, you can get the y component, then just find sqrt(Vx^2 + Vy^2)
 
Well this is how I set it up, similar to yours : dy= vi(t) + 0.5(a)(t)^2

I did that have got this: dy= vi(4.6) + 103.684
I didn't take into consideration that 9.8 is negative so sorry
But where do I go from there, I don't know how to solve the rest
 
You know the x distance: x0 = 0, xf = 23m, so 23 = Vx * t gives you Vx
you have the y time: solve for Vy with 0 = Dy(t). there will be 2 answers: 0 and the Vy you are looking for
 
Yeah, I know about competent breakdown. I got like 22.9 m/s for the Viy.I tested it using the range equation and it worked well. Thank you so much , it really did help me !
 

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