Is this even solvable? Kinematics.

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves kinematics, specifically the motion of a ball thrown vertically upward with an initial velocity, V0. The ball reaches a height, h, before landing on a building that is half that height, and the total time of flight is given as 10 seconds. The goal is to find the values of h and V0.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the appropriateness of using a final velocity of 0 m/s at the point of landing, with some suggesting that the velocity just before landing should be considered instead. Others note the need for proper kinematic equations to relate distance and time, indicating that algebra and logical reasoning are necessary to find a numerical solution for V0 and h.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants providing guidance on the use of kinematic equations and questioning the assumptions made about the final velocity. There are indications that multiple interpretations of the problem are being explored, particularly regarding the motion of the ball and the equations involved.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention constraints related to the time of flight and the relationship between the heights of the ball and the building, but there is no consensus on the best approach to take or the specific values to use in calculations.

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Homework Statement



A ball is thrown vertically upward from ground level with an initial velocity V0. The ball rises to a height, h, then lands on the roof of a building of height 1/2h. The entire motion requires 10s. Find the height, h, and the initial velocity, V0.

Homework Equations



Kinematics.

The Attempt at a Solution



I can't come up with anything, I'm using a final velocity of 0 m/s when running everything through and none of the values are making sense. I just need to know if it's actually solvable for real values. I'm in a hurry for work right now, but I will check back later.

I'm using: t2: 10s
t0= 0s
v1= 0 m/s (turning point)
a = -g
y1= h
y2= 1/2h
v2= 0 m/s (stop)
y0 = 0 m
 
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I think using that as your final velocity is your main problem so far. Yes, the final velocity will be zero once the ball hits the building and stops, but you can't use that value because the process of the object stopping isn't free-fall motion. You have to use the value of the velocity just before it lands as the final velocity.
 
You've just jotted down some trivial equations so far; you haven't actually written the proper kinematic equations involving distance as a function of time.

Yes, there is a numerical solution for V0 and h, and there is a fair amount of algebra and logical deduction involved in obtaining it.
 
s(t)=v_0t-1/2gt^2, s(t)_{\text{max}}=h=f(v_0,g), solve s(t)=\frac{h}{2} for t, and then plugin t=10s, get the larger answer
 
Last edited:

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