How Fast and at What Angle Must a Daredevil Jump to Cross a Canyon?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the necessary parameters for a daredevil to successfully jump across a canyon. Key calculations include determining the initial speed (Vo) required to complete the jump, the final speed (Vf), and the surface angle (theta) for a smooth landing. The initial height (Ho) is 70m, the final height (Hf) is 35m, and the canyon width is 100m. The participants suggest breaking the problem into horizontal and vertical components, utilizing equations of motion to find the required values.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of projectile motion principles
  • Familiarity with kinematic equations, specifically x = x0 + vt + at^2
  • Knowledge of vector decomposition in physics
  • Basic trigonometry for calculating angles using tangent
NEXT STEPS
  • Calculate the initial speed Vo using kinematic equations for vertical motion
  • Determine the final speed Vf at the landing point using energy conservation principles
  • Compute the surface angle theta using the tangent of the vertical and horizontal components
  • Explore additional factors affecting jump dynamics, such as air resistance and motorcycle specifications
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for physics students, stunt coordinators, and engineers involved in designing and analyzing stunt jumps and similar projects.

Dan66Stang
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Hey guys/girls, I would appreciate some help on a problem that I am having trouble with.

A daredevil jumps his motorcycle across a canyon. If his acceleration is 9.81 m/s^2 downward, determine:

a) the initial speed Vo required to complete the jump.
b) the final speed Vf.
c) The surface angle theta required at the end of the jump to ensure a smooth landing.

Okay here's some info about the jump.

Initial height = Ho = 70m
Final height = Hf = 35m
The canyon is 100m wide

Help would be appreciated, thanks.
 
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what i would do is use x = x0 +vt + at^2 and plug in the appropriate numbers for both the x and y coordinates. and then for the angle you just plug in the x and y speeds for tangent and take that angle.
 
Well, here are some hints. I would break this down into components. Find the motion in a horizontal motion then vertical, and then combine your vectors.
 
fizzzzzzzzzzzy said:
what i would do is use x = x0 +vt + at^2 and plug in the appropriate numbers for both the x and y coordinates. and then for the angle you just plug in the x and y speeds for tangent and take that angle.

This will not work for the x direction, since there is no acceleration in that direction when he is in the air.
 

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