Why Does the Minimum Radius of Curvature Occur at the Apex in Parabolic Motion?

In summary, the problem involves a projectile in a uniform gravitational field with initial location and velocity. The goal is to find the minimum value of the radius of curvature at the apex of the parabolic trajectory, which is equal to (v_0x)^2/g. The student has set up equations and is attempting to find the equation for the parabolic trajectory and the radius of curvature.
  • #1
F.Turner
10
0

Homework Statement


A projectile in uniform gravitational field g=-g*j[tex]\hat{}[/tex] with initial location x(t=0)=[tex]_{}x[/tex]o, y(0)=[tex]_{}y[/tex]o show explicitly that the minimum value of radius of curvature [tex]\partial[/tex] of the resulting parabolic trajectory occurs at the apex and equal to ([tex]^{}v[/tex]ox)^2/g

Homework Equations


Dynamic vector kinematics equations



The Attempt at a Solution


I have set up two equations that i believe I will need but still I'm stuck i am not to sure if the route I'm taking is correct. Would like to know what should be the initial setup for this problem.
 
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  • #2
Start by writing an equation y(x) giving the parabolic trajectory.
 
  • #3
Okay, I think I'm heading in the right direction now, I am trying to evaluate the radius of curvature as a function of position from there i will attempt to...not sure yet
 

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