Max height expressed with v, theta, and g

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around determining the maximum height of a projectile using conservation of energy principles, specifically expressing it in terms of initial velocity (v), launch angle (theta), and gravitational acceleration (g).

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the relationship between kinetic and potential energy, attempting to derive the maximum height formula. Questions arise regarding the correct placement of trigonometric functions and the consideration of vertical velocity.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided guidance on refining the approach, suggesting that focusing on vertical velocity may clarify the derivation. There is an acknowledgment of mistakes in the initial attempts, but no consensus has been reached on a final expression.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working under the constraints of expressing the height in terms of specific variables and are questioning the assumptions made regarding the components of velocity in the energy equation.

uber_dzl
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[SOLVED] max height expressed with v, theta, and g

Homework Statement



what is the max height of a projectile with velocity v at an angle theta using the conservation of energy? express in terms of v, theta, and g

Homework Equations



1/2*m*v^2=mgh


The Attempt at a Solution



i tried and got (v^2*sin(theta))/2g (wrong)
 
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You've got the right idea. In fact I think you're close. Actually type out your work and show us, see if you spot the mistake
 
((1/2)m(v^2)*sin(theta))=mgh...then ((1/2)m(v^2)*sin(theta))/mg=mgh/mg...then the m cancels leaving me with (v^2*sin(theta))/2g=h
 
is my issue the placement of sin(theta) in the equation before i solve for h?
 
wow! what a tedious mistake...it was the placement of the exponent and parenthesis that was wrong...


thanx
 
Well my issue was you start here

1/2*m*v^2=mgh

It's the VERTICAL velocity you care about, it's 1/2*m*Vy^2=mgh

Vy=Vsin(theta) so you get 1/2*m*V^2sin^2(theta)
 

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