Projectile: Given V0, h, show d=(v0/g)sqrt((v0)^2-4gh)

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves a projectile fired at a specific velocity, v₀, and passing through two points at a height, h. The objective is to demonstrate a relationship for the distance, d, between these points, expressed in terms of v₀, g (acceleration due to gravity), and h.

Discussion Character

  • Mixed

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss deriving a quadratic equation related to the projectile's motion and explore the manipulation of this equation to reach the desired formula. There are attempts to apply the quadratic formula and concerns about simplification. Some participants express frustration over the progress and seek suggestions for alternative approaches.

Discussion Status

The discussion includes various attempts to manipulate the derived equations, with one participant indicating they have reached a form close to the target equation. Another participant expresses urgency due to an impending deadline, highlighting the collaborative nature of the inquiry. One participant ultimately claims to have resolved the issue, suggesting a potential breakthrough.

Contextual Notes

There is a time constraint mentioned, as the problem is due shortly. Participants are navigating through their understanding of projectile motion and the implications of the equations involved.

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Homework Statement


A projectile is fired from a gun (adjusted to give maximum range) with velocity [tex]v_{0}[/tex]. The projectile passes through two points at a height h. The problem asks us to show that [tex]d=\frac{v_{0}}{g}\sqrt{v^{2}_{0}-4gh}[/tex]
where d is the distance between the two points at height h.

Homework Equations


[tex]r=v_{0}t+\frac{1}{2}at^{2}[/tex]
[tex]v=v_{0}+at[/tex]
[tex]x= \frac{-b\pm\sqrt{b^{2}-4ac}}{2a}[/tex]


The Attempt at a Solution


I was able to get a quadratic function of x:
[tex]0=\frac{g}{v^{2}_{0}}x^{2}-x+h[/tex]

After manipulation using the quadratic formula, all I can see is:
[tex]x=\frac{v^{2}_{0}}{2g}+\frac{1}{v_{0}}\sqrt{v^{2}_{0}-4gh}[/tex]

Which just looks so close but I'm killing myself in trying to see how it is either (1) wrong or (2) able to be simplified.

EDIT: [tex]x=\frac{v^{2}_{0}}{2g}+\frac{1}{2gv_{0}}\sqrt{v^{2}_{0}-4gh}[/tex], sorry.

Help?
 
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Does anyone even have any suggestions? This is actually due in about an hour and a half. I'm not heartbroken or anything but I'm feeling pretty annoyed that I might not get this problem. I honestly can't see what's going wrong here. Any creative suggestions or strong nudges are totally welcome.

Thanks...
 
Alright, so, I currently have the following written on my paper:

[tex]x= \frac{v^{2}_{0} \pm v_{0} \sqrt{v^{2}_{0}-4gh}}{2g}[/tex]

I can't find the correction that makes this into the formula asked for.
 
Ahhhhhhh... So, this one was staring me in the face. Done and with 20 minutes to spare.
 

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