Need help finding a derivation of the range formula

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on deriving the range formula for a projectile in a vacuum, specifically addressing the equation Range = Vh * t, where Vh = V0 * cos(theta). The user struggles with rearranging the equation V = V0 + at to derive the relationship V - V0 = 2 * V0 * sin(theta) and the time of flight t = 2 * V0 * sin(theta) / g, with g being 9.8 m/s². The explanation emphasizes the symmetry of projectile motion and the vertical velocity component.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of projectile motion principles
  • Familiarity with trigonometric functions, specifically sine and cosine
  • Knowledge of basic kinematics equations
  • Concept of gravitational acceleration (g = 9.8 m/s²)
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of the range formula for projectile motion in a vacuum
  • Learn about the components of velocity in projectile motion
  • Explore the effects of air resistance on projectile trajectories
  • Investigate the mathematical principles behind kinematic equations
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, educators teaching projectile motion, and anyone interested in the mathematical foundations of kinematics.

Yorganda
Messages
2
Reaction score
0
I need to find a derivation of the range formula for a projectile in the absence of air.

i know that the range formula is Range=Vhxt
i know that Vh=vcostheta

but in having trouble understanding how V=Vo+at can be re-arranged to = 2Vsintheta/g=t where a=g=9.8m/s/s (gravity)

i know V=Vo+at can be arranged to equal V-Vo/g=t
but this is where i get stuck, i don't know how to get to V-Vo=2Vsintheta

i know that vsintheta = vertical velocity

If anyone can help it would be appreciated heaps
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Because of the symmetry of the parabola, the ball will hit the ground with a vertical velocity of -Vo*sin(theta). So the net change in velocity is 2*Vo*sin(theta) which takes t=2*Vo*sin(theta)/g
That's a pretty hand-wavy explanation though.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
5K
  • · Replies 19 ·
Replies
19
Views
1K
  • · Replies 53 ·
2
Replies
53
Views
4K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
6K
Replies
6
Views
3K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
4K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
3K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
5K