Initial velocity of a projectile

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the initial velocity (Vi) of a projectile launched at an angle (theta) from a height (h) above a table, hitting the table at a horizontal distance (delta x). The relevant equations include the horizontal motion equation (delta x = Vi * delta t) and the vertical motion equation (delta y = Vi * delta t - 0.5g(delta t)^2). The initial velocity components are defined as Vix = Vi * cos(theta) and Viy = Vi * sin(theta). The problem requires solving for Vi without numerical values, emphasizing the need for a conceptual understanding of projectile motion.

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  • Understanding of projectile motion principles
  • Familiarity with trigonometric functions (sine and cosine)
  • Knowledge of kinematic equations for motion
  • Basic grasp of gravitational acceleration (g)
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  • Explore numerical examples of projectile motion problems
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Homework Statement



1. A projectile is launched at angle(theta) relative to the horizontal (see the figure below). The
initial height of the projectile above the surface of the table is h, and it hits the table at
distance (delta)x from the launch point. Find the launch speed vi of the projectile.

Homework Equations



(delta x)= Vi(initial velocity of x) + (delta t)
(delta y)=Vi(initial velocity of y)(delta t)-0.5g(delta t)^2
yi=yf (initial position equals final position)


The Attempt at a Solution



i think i have to some for some variable in one equation and then plug that into the other equation and solve for Vi(initial velocity)
 
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For your first equation, you probably meant
(delta x)= Vi(initial velocity of x) * (delta t)

And for clarification. . .is the initial height the same as the final height? From reading the question it seems like it is launched above the table, and then hits the table.

Remember that Vix= Vi (cos theta)
Viy= Vi (sin theta)

Is that all the info that was given? There doesn't seem to be any numbers. . .unless the answer is not supposed to be numerical. . .
 
for clarification there are not supposed to be any numbers, i just have to solve for initial velocity.

a cannon shoots a ball that lands a certain distance from the ground. when the ball is leaving the cannon its at a height of h. find the initial velocity.
 

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