I deriving equtions for projectile motion.

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on deriving equations for projectile motion, specifically expressing the range R in terms of maximum height h, leading to the conclusion that R = 4h cot(Θ). The participant initially used incorrect equations but later corrected their approach by substituting the appropriate height equation. The final goal is to demonstrate mathematically that when the range is maximized, h equals R/4.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of projectile motion principles
  • Familiarity with trigonometric functions, particularly cotangent
  • Knowledge of kinematic equations for vertical and horizontal motion
  • Ability to manipulate algebraic expressions and equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of the maximum height equation in projectile motion
  • Learn how to apply trigonometric identities in physics problems
  • Explore the relationship between range and height in projectile motion
  • Practice solving problems involving the kinematic equations for projectile motion
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Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on mechanics and projectile motion, as well as educators looking for examples of problem-solving in kinematics.

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Homework Statement



Show that the range R can be expressed in terms of maximum height h, and in particular that R=4hcot[itex]\Theta[/itex]. Show that, when range is at a maximum, h=R/4

Homework Equations



R=(v(o)^2*2sin[itex]\Theta[/itex]cos[itex]\Theta[/itex])/g
v(y)^2=v(yo)^2-2gh

The Attempt at a Solution



I used the second equation to find a value for v(o)^2 to substitute into the first equation. I got:

v(o)^2=2gh/sin[itex]\Theta[/itex]

Plugged that into the first one:

R=(v(o)^2*2sin[itex]\Theta[/itex]cos[itex]\Theta[/itex])/g
R=(2gh*2sin[itex]\Theta[/itex]cos[itex]\Theta[/itex])/sin[itex]\Theta[/itex]g

Simplified to:

R=4hcos[itex]\Theta[/itex]

I don't know how to make it cot[itex]\Theta[/itex] instead of cos. Maybe i used the wrong equations or something.

For (b), I drew the flight path, dividing the range into 4 equal parts, then showed that the height is equal to one of the quarters of the range. I need to show it mathematically, any hints on that?

Thank you guys for any help.
 
Last edited:
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Since my teacher never gave us the equation for height i posted above, he said we have to derive it ourselves... I have no idea how to do this, can you guys help me out?

And i still don't understand how to derive the equation R=h/4
 

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