I'm trying to find max height of a projectile

AI Thread Summary
To find the maximum height of a projectile given the angle of projection and time in the air, it's essential to understand that at maximum height, the vertical component of velocity is zero. The equations for projectile motion can be used, specifically y = v*sin(angle)*t - 0.5*g*t^2, where g is the acceleration due to gravity. Initial velocity is not required if you can derive it from the time of flight and the angle. If a negative initial velocity is calculated, it indicates a potential error in the setup or application of the equations. Accurate application of these principles will yield the correct maximum height.
starlight1834
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I'm trying to find max height of a projectile and I only know the angle of projection and the time it is in the air. No clue where to start working this problem...don't I need initial velocity to start?
 
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Welcome to PF. Here we will provide u with clues/hints if u show ur try.

At max height there will be no component of velocity in y direction so Vy=0
Eqn of trajectory:
y=xtan(\theta) - \frac{gx^2}{2V_0^2 cos^2(\theta )}

Diff above to get y_max
Or

y=v_0 sin(\theta) t- 0.5 gt^2
for y_{max} : t= \frac{v_0 sin\theta }{g} = 0.5 T

Where T is the time in Air
u won't need initial velocity
T= 2v_0 sin\theta * g^{-1}
so basically u know initial velocity as well
 
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I still don't see how I don't need the initial velocity. I can plug everything else into the equation. I'm using the equation y=v*sin(angle)*t +.5*g*t
Is this the right equation? If so, why don't I need the velocity, and how do I get around it?
 
negative max height?

I used the equations and found the initial velocity, and it was negative, so then when I put everything back into the y-max equation I got a negative number for the y-max. I don't think that's right, where did I go wrong? Please help ASAP b/c I have class in 45 min!
 
starlight1834 said:
I still don't see how I don't need the initial velocity. I can plug everything else into the equation. I'm using the equation y=v*sin(angle)*t +.5*g*t
Is this the right equation? If so, why don't I need the velocity, and how do I get around it?
there should be -g coz velocity is in opposite direction
 
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