Projectile Motion: Calculations for a successful basketball shot

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the calculations involved in projectile motion, specifically regarding a basketball shot. Participants debate the assumption that the ball reaches its maximum height at the midpoint of its trajectory. They emphasize the importance of providing a logical argument for such assumptions and suggest using clearer diagrams to illustrate the projectile's path. Key measurements mentioned include a vertical displacement of 1.2 meters and a horizontal displacement of 5.3 meters, which are critical for accurate calculations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics concepts related to projectile motion
  • Familiarity with kinematic equations for vertical and horizontal displacement
  • Ability to interpret and create diagrams representing trajectories
  • Knowledge of basketball shot mechanics and target height considerations
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the kinematic equations for projectile motion
  • Learn how to create accurate trajectory diagrams for projectile paths
  • Explore the effects of initial velocity and angle on projectile motion
  • Study the principles of maximizing shooting accuracy in basketball
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for physics students, basketball coaches, and sports scientists interested in the mechanics of shooting and projectile motion analysis.

ayderay
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Homework Statement
A basketball player shoots successfully at goal from a horizontal distance of 5.3m to the centre of the goal ring. She releases the ball at an angle of 48 to the horizontal and 1.2m below the height of the ring. What was the ball’s speed as it left her hand? The answer is 8.1m/s
Relevant Equations
Motion equations
4A14584B-3E5E-44EE-BA13-CE48F2DF1EC9.png
 
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Why have you assumed that the ball reaches the maximal height at the midpoint of the trajectory? Can you make an argument for this?
 
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Orodruin said:
Why have you assumed that the ball reaches the maximal height at the midpoint of the trajectory? Can you make an argument for this?
I assumed it..
 
Perhaps a clearer diagram might help. We can ignore the practicalities of the hoop, and just consider the target as a point in space that we want to reach, at the top of the pole:

1587288195354.png


There is another trajectory you could have, I'll let you think of what that might be! It won't affect your calculations.
 
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ayderay said:
I assumed it..
It is not a healthy habit to assume things that you cannot give an argument for. Can you show whether it is the case or not?
 
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As the ball reaches the ring, how much is its horizontal displacement? How much is its vertical displacement?
 
etotheipi said:
Perhaps a clearer diagram might help. We can ignore the practicalities of the hoop, and just consider the target as a point in space that we want to reach, at the top of the pole:

View attachment 260947

There is another trajectory you could have, I'll let you think of what that might be! It won't affect your calculations.
Ohh, thank u for this, it’s much more understandable. I’ll try the question out again
 
ayderay said:
Ohh, thank u for this, it’s much more understandable. I’ll try the question out again
You treat 1.2m as displacement along vertical.
5.3 m as displacement along horizontal.
And proceed. You will get
 

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