Initial Velocity (Without time and acceleration)

AI Thread Summary
To determine the initial horizontal velocity required for a rock to barely clear a shelf after a 7 m drop, the time of fall must first be calculated using the equation for vertical motion under gravity. The time taken to fall 7 m is approximately 0.714 seconds. Once this time is known, the horizontal distance of 9 m can be used to find the necessary horizontal velocity. Using the relevant equations, the final velocity can be calculated, leading to the conclusion that the initial horizontal velocity must be sufficient to cover the horizontal distance in the calculated time. This problem emphasizes the relationship between vertical and horizontal motion in projectile dynamics.
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Homework Statement


You are standing at the top of a cliff that has a stair step configuration. There is a vertical drop of 7 m at your feet, then a horizontal shelf of 9 m, then another drop of 3 m to the bottom of the canyon, which has a horizontal floor. You kick a 0.26 kg rock, giving it an initial horizontal velocity that barely clears the shelf below.

What initial horizontal velocity v will be required to barely clear the edge of the shelf
below you? How far from the bottom of the second cliff with the rock land?

Homework Equations



d=Vi(t)+(1/2)(a)(t^2)

The Attempt at a Solution


Cant seem to get around the problem without knowing more.
 
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Can you find the time required for the rock to reach the point where it barely clears the edge of the shelf?
 
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kuruman said:
Can you find the time required for the rock to reach the point where it barely clears the edge of the shelf?

I haven't been able to
 
You can find the time by using gravity and the fact that the first step is 7 meters down. How long does it take for the rock to fall 7 m? If you find it you can calculate how fast it must travel in a horizontal direction.
 
Anden said:
You can find the time by using gravity and the fact that the first step is 7 meters down. How long does it take for the rock to fall 7 m? If you find it you can calculate how fast it must travel in a horizontal direction.

Could you help me out a little more?
 
Anden said:
You can find the time by using gravity and the fact that the first step is 7 meters down. How long does it take for the rock to fall 7 m? If you find it you can calculate how fast it must travel in a horizontal direction.

So I am assuming you mean:
7m/9.8=.7142857s to make it to the bottom =t

using

d=(Vi+Vf/2)(t)
therefore
9m=(0+Vf/2)(.7142857s)
Vf=25.2

that not right?
 
anyone?
 
Use the equation that you initially quoted as "relevant" for the vertical motion. Identify ll the quantities - you know all of them except the time. Remember, vertical motion only.
 
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