Physics Homework involving projectile motion.

AI Thread Summary
To solve the projectile motion problem involving a golf ball hit at 50 m/s at a 17-degree angle, the equation used is y = vi(sinθt) - 4.9t^2. The user attempted to set up the equation but became stuck on the algebra, particularly when applying the quadratic formula. They noted receiving an unexpected answer and expressed confusion, attributing it to being early in the school year and feeling rusty. A suggestion was made to ensure the calculator is set to degrees instead of radians, which is crucial for accurate calculations. Overall, the discussion highlights common challenges faced in physics homework related to projectile motion and the importance of proper calculator settings.
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Homework Statement



A golf ball is hit with a velocity of 50 m/s. The angle to the ground is 17 degrees. find t

Homework Equations


The equation my teacher provided was: y=vi(sinθt)-4.9t^2


The Attempt at a Solution



0= 50sin17-4.9t^2
0=-4.9t^2-48.1t

this is where i got stuck... i guess it's more the actual algebra that I'm stuck on. I tried the quadratic formula but i got an odd answer and now I'm blanking on other options. it's only my 3rd week of school so I'm still sort of rusty.

any help would be greatly appreciated!
 
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Check that your calculator is set for angles in degrees rather than radians.
 
gneill said:
Check that your calculator is set for angles in degrees rather than radians.

Thank you! New calculator...
 
Thread 'Variable mass system : water sprayed into a moving container'

Thread 'Variable mass system : water sprayed into a moving container'

Starting with the mass considerations #m(t)# is mass of water #M_{c}# mass of container and #M(t)# mass of total system $$M(t) = M_{C} + m(t)$$ $$\Rightarrow \frac{dM(t)}{dt} = \frac{dm(t)}{dt}$$ $$P_i = Mv + u \, dm$$ $$P_f = (M + dm)(v + dv)$$ $$\Delta P = M \, dv + (v - u) \, dm$$ $$F = \frac{dP}{dt} = M \frac{dv}{dt} + (v - u) \frac{dm}{dt}$$ $$F = u \frac{dm}{dt} = \rho A u^2$$ from conservation of momentum , the cannon recoils with the same force which it applies. $$\quad \frac{dm}{dt}...
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