# Need help with a confounding projectile motion problem.

Ok, here's the problem:

A cannon angled at 45 degrees above the horizontal is fired. The cannonball lands 100 meters away. What is the initial velocity?

I've tried using the kinematic equations, but I always end up with at least 2 variables with 1 equation. I'm just completely stumped. Any help to nudge me in the right direction would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.

## Answers and Replies

Post your calculations so that we can show you the solution/errors.

BobG
Homework Helper
You have two equations: one to solve for the horizontal displacement and one to solve for the vertical displacement.

HallsofIvy
Homework Helper
You certainly should have two equations- one for the horizontal position and one for the vertical position. Your two variables will be the horizontal component of initial velocity (which is equal to the vertical component because the angle is 45 degrees) and time.

mukundpa
Homework Helper
May use the formula for horizontal range of a projectile

R = u^2sin(2theeta)/g

Danger
Gold Member
I'd say that your army is in trouble if you can only shoot 100 metres.
Actually, I just wanted to clarify if this is neglecting air resistance. That makes a big difference.

Thanks for BobG, HallsofIvy and mukundpa, I think I got the answer.