How Long Before the Apple Core Hits the Ground?

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves projectile motion, specifically analyzing the trajectory of an apple core thrown from a height of 4 meters at an angle of 35 degrees above the horizontal with an initial velocity of 5 m/s. The objective is to determine the time it takes for the core to hit the ground.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster considers calculating the x-y components of the initial velocity and using the vertical motion equation to find the time of flight. Some participants question the initial conditions and the application of the equations, noting the importance of the launch angle and initial height.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively discussing the correct application of equations related to projectile motion. Some have pointed out potential errors in the original poster's approach, particularly regarding the initial vertical displacement and the final velocity conditions. There is a mix of interpretations regarding the setup of the problem.

Contextual Notes

There is a mention of confusion regarding the launch angle and initial conditions, with some participants reflecting on their understanding of basic physics principles. The discussion highlights the need for clarity on the initial vertical position and the effects of the angle on the trajectory.

Nicolaus
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Homework Statement


A child sitting in a tree throws an apple core from where he is perched (4 m high) with a velocity of 5 m/s [35 degrees above horizontal] and it hits the ground next to his friend.
How long before the core hits the ground?


Homework Equations


dy = vy(initial)t + 1/2at
quadratic eqn.

The Attempt at a Solution


Would I calculate the x-y components of the initial velocity then plug in the initial y velocity to the first aforementioned eqn then solve for t using the latter eqn?
 
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Don't mind that comment! read it too fast, I did not take angle into account, I thought he was throwing it straight down. Whoops! that's embarrassing, back to high school physics for me
 
Last edited:
Your first equation is wrong. You're forgetting the dy(initial) term.
Other than that, you're right.
 
Do not do what FaynmanIsCool wrote. The final velocity is not 0, he didn't account for the launch angle, and he has the wrong sign for a.
 

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