What is the initial velocity of a flea that jumps to a maximum height of 0.550m?

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In summary, the problem involves applying kinematic equations to a jumping flea to determine its initial velocity and time in the air. The initial velocity is found to be 3.28 m/s, and the time in the air is 0.335 seconds.
  • #1
Scrum
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[SOLVED] Just Checking

Homework Statement



In this problem, you will apply kinematic equations to a jumping flea. Take the magnitude of free-fall acceleration to be 9.80 .

A flea jumps straight up to a maximum height of 0.550m . What is its initial velocity Vsub0 as it leaves the ground?

Express your answer in meters per second to three significant figures.



Homework Equations


Since my givens are
x = .550m
[Vsub0] = unknown
[Asubx] = =9.80

Hopefully [Vsubx]^2 = [Vsub0x]^2 + 2[Asubx] * (X-[Xsub0])




The Attempt at a Solution




[Vsubx]^2 = [Vsub0x]^2 + 2[Asubx] * (X-[Xsub0])

Vsubx is the final velocity, which at the max height is 0, and Xsub0 is just 0 as that's where it starts so I just plug the rest in

0^2 = [Vsub0x]^2 + 2[-9.80]*(.550)

0 = [Vsub0x]^2 -10.78

10.78 = [Vsub0x]^2

Sqrt(10.78) = 3.28 m/s




I think this is correct but i want to check as the homework system is somewhat unforgiving
 
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  • #2
Yep. Correct.
 
  • #3
Now that I completed that the homework is asking me another question.

Homework Statement



How long is the flea in the air from the time it jumps to the time it hits the ground?
Express your answer in seconds to three significant figures.

x = .550m
[Vsub0] = 3.28m/s (ans to 1)
[Asubx] = =9.80m/s^2
t= unknown

Homework Equations


X-[Xsub0] ={ ([Vsub0x] + [Vsubx])/2 } t

3. The Attempt at a Solution

x - xsub0 is .550m because initial position is 0 and final is .550m

.550m ={ ([Vsub0x] + [Vsubx])/2 } t

sub in vars

.550m ={ ([3.28m/s] + [0])/2 } t

.550m ={ 3.28/2 } t

.550m = 1.64m/s * t

.550 / 1.64 = .335

ans = .335 to go from gound to top of parabola

.670 to go all the way? Just checking again, this new to me.
 
  • #4
Use time of fall = time of rise. Makes things easier.

h = 1/2 gt^2 => 0.55 = 0.5*9.8*t^2 => t = 0.33 => 2t = 6.7.
 

1. How do fleas jump so high?

Fleas have a unique leg structure that allows them to store and release energy quickly, giving them the ability to jump up to 150 times their own body length.

2. Why is it important to solve flea's jump problem?

Understanding how fleas jump can help us develop better pest control strategies and improve our understanding of biomechanics.

3. How do scientists study flea's jump problem?

Scientists use high-speed cameras and motion capture technology to study the movements of fleas as they jump. They also use mathematical models and simulations to understand the mechanics of flea jumping.

4. Can fleas jump higher than other insects?

Yes, fleas are one of the best jumpers in the insect world. They can jump higher and farther than most other insects, thanks to their unique leg structure and energy storage mechanism.

5. What are the potential applications of solving flea's jump problem?

The knowledge gained from solving flea's jump problem can have practical applications in fields such as robotics, sports technology, and aerospace engineering. It can also help us understand and potentially improve human and animal movements.

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