Kinematics Problem: Finding Initial Velocity of a Basketball Thrown at an Angle

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on solving a kinematics problem involving the initial velocity of a basketball thrown at an angle. The scenario specifies a basketball player standing 9.5 meters from a basket at a height of 3.1 meters, throwing the ball from an initial height of 2.0 meters at a 35-degree angle. To find the initial velocity (v_initial), users are advised to set up two equations: one for vertical motion influenced by gravity and another for horizontal motion at constant speed. The solution requires identifying the time the ball spends in the hoop (t_ball_in_hoop) as an unknown variable.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of kinematic equations in physics
  • Knowledge of projectile motion concepts
  • Familiarity with trigonometric functions for angle calculations
  • Ability to manipulate algebraic equations to solve for unknowns
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of kinematic equations for projectile motion
  • Learn how to apply trigonometric functions in real-world physics problems
  • Practice solving similar problems involving angles and initial velocities
  • Explore the concept of uniform motion and its applications in physics
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for students preparing for physics exams, particularly those focusing on kinematics and projectile motion. It is also useful for educators seeking to provide clearer explanations of these concepts.

Mgh3
Messages
2
Reaction score
0
Hey, so I've been having some problems with Kinematics in reviewing for my finals next week! One question in particular I need help with, because I don't know how to solve it, and I am very bad at conveying my solutions on tests. Can anyone give me a hand? The question is : a basketball player is standing 9.5m from the basket which is at a height of 3.1m. She throws the ball from an initial height of 2.0m at an angle of 35 degrees above horizontal. The ball goes straight through the basket. Find v initial.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Be sure to use the HW template, which every user must use to get HW Help. You also need to know what you tried so far, so we can assist you.
 
You want to know how to solve it. Think of a few things you should have learned in this context and apply them in a reasonable manner.
There is a constant force in the vertical direction, so you get an expression for height as a function of time. Take t_throwing = 0 and leave t_ball_in_hoop as unknown.
No force horizontally, so: uniform motion at a constant speed. Two expressions with two unknowns only: t_ball_in_hoop and v_initial. Solve for v_initial.
By the way, I agree with NasuSama: you get better help if the helpers see what you've done by yourself and where you get stuck.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
Replies
5
Views
2K
Replies
8
Views
2K
Replies
3
Views
4K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
4K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
7K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
10K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
5K
Replies
1
Views
3K
Replies
6
Views
7K