How to Determine the Speed of Ball B When Two Balls Pass Each Other?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on determining the speed of Ball B when two balls pass each other at a specific height. Given parameters include Ball A released from 40 ft and Ball B thrown from 5 ft, meeting at 20 ft. The key to solving the problem lies in recognizing that both balls reach the meeting point at the same time, allowing the use of the equations of motion to find the speed of Ball B. The gravitational acceleration is specified as 32.2 ft/s², which is crucial for calculations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the three equations of motion
  • Knowledge of gravitational acceleration (32.2 ft/s²)
  • Familiarity with kinematic equations for height versus time
  • Basic algebra for solving equations with multiple variables
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the three equations of motion in detail
  • Learn how to apply kinematic equations to solve for unknown variables
  • Explore examples of projectile motion to reinforce concepts
  • Practice problems involving simultaneous motion of two objects
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for physics students, educators, and anyone interested in understanding the principles of motion and kinematics, particularly in scenarios involving multiple objects in motion.

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Homework Statement


Ball A is released from rest at height h1 at the same time that a
second ball B is thrown upward from a distance h2 above the
ground. If the balls pass one another at a height h3 determine the
speed at which ball B was thrown upward.
Given:
h1 = 40 ft
h2 = 5 ft
h3 = 20 ft
g =32.2 ft/sc2

Homework Equations


the equation to be used are the three equations of motion, as the acceleration is constant.

The Attempt at a Solution


I couldn't attempt the solution because I am stuck a every equation as therer are many unknowns for ball B. WHat I can not find out yet is the relation between ball A and Ball B when they pass each other. There has to be property common in both at that time so that I can solve for B then. But again, after a lot of thinking I don't get how to do it still. Couldn't make any logic. The distance traveled is already given. Time taken and velocity will not be the same. What then?
 
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The "properties" that will be the same are the height and the time. They will be at the same height at the same time. But the problem is actually much simpler. You know where they meet so you can find the time from the equation for ball A and then plug into the equation for ball B.
By equations here I mean equations of motion (height versus time).
 


My confusion is that why will they take same time to meet each other? Like ball A can be at the meeting ponit in 5 secs while ball B can be there in 3 secs. I mean isn't it supposed to be dependent on their speeds ? How can we say here that they will meet each other at same time?
 

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