How Do You Calculate Rocket Trajectory and Impact?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating rocket trajectory and impact, specifically focusing on a rocket launched vertically and then at an angle. The original poster presents a problem involving initial velocity, maximum height, and time of flight, referencing kinematic equations.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to apply kinematic equations to determine time and height but expresses uncertainty about their calculations. Some participants suggest the need to understand the derivation of kinematic equations, while others point out the limitations of the original poster's approach regarding time calculation.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants providing guidance on the importance of kinematic equations and addressing misconceptions about the calculations. There is no explicit consensus, but several lines of reasoning and interpretations are being explored.

Contextual Notes

The original poster is required to use four decimal places for accuracy and is working under the constraints of a homework assignment. There is a mention of needing to derive certain equations, indicating potential gaps in foundational knowledge.

Newell33
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Homework Statement



Use 4 decimal places at each step to ensure accuracy.
a) A rocket is launched vertically and remains in the air for 5.10 seconds until it hits the ground. Calculate the initial velocity of the rocket. Calculate the maximum height of the rocket (positive).
vo = 24.99

m/s (Note: You will need this initial velocity for parts b, c, and d)
y = 31.8622

m

b) The rocket is now launched with the same initial velocity as calculated in part A at an angle of 45 degrees. Calculate the time the rocket will be in the air for. Calculate the maximum height that the rocket will reach. Calculate the horizontal distance that the rocket will travel until it hits the ground.
t = s

y = m
x = m


Homework Equations


idk sorry :(

The Attempt at a Solution



ok so i tried to do
t = (v - vo) / -9.8


and its wrong because i got
2.55
 
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If you don't know the kinematic equations, you won't be able to do solve these questions unless you know how to derive them yourself. You can find some of the formulas (not all of them, but you can derive the rest from the basic ones) in the sticky for this forum: https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=110015
 
Do you have a physics textbook? If yes which one is it? I think I got through intro physics by studying the worked examples in my physics book (and also reading the book).
 
This: t = (v - vo) / -9.8
gives you only half of the time because its speed is (momentarily) zero at the top.
Its speed is not zero when it hits the ground!
 

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