The problem involves determining the optimal angle and speed for throwing a javelin to achieve a distance of 90 meters, without considering air resistance. The discussion centers around the concept of projectile motion and the conditions for maximizing range.
The discussion is ongoing, with participants expressing uncertainty about how to calculate the optimal angle given the problem's constraints. Some guidance has been offered regarding the relationship between angle and range, but no consensus has been reached on the approach to take.
Participants note the ambiguity in the problem regarding the definition of 'optimal starting angle' and the implications of having only the distance as a given variable.
I suspect they want you to derive the optimal starting angle, not just assume it. I assume they mean 'what is the angle that gives the greatest horizontal distance'. This is also called the range of a projectile. But they could mean something else. How does your book define 'optimal starting angle'?Skipe_ said:I really have no clue on this one. Is the optimal starting angle 45°? That would seem somehow logical.
If by 'optimal starting angle' they mean 'the angle that gives the greatest horizontal distance', then calculating that has nothing to do with the distance. It's a general result. Your 'logical' guess was correct, but now you must prove it.Skipe_ said:Yes, i understand what it means. I just don't understand how you can calculate it range being the only given variable.