Projectile Motion Explaination

In summary, two spheres of different masses, A and B, are launched horizontally from a 1.0m high table. Sphere A has a mass of 1.0kg and is launched with an initial speed of 5.0 m/s, while Sphere B has a mass of 0.4kg and is launched with an initial speed of 2.5 m/s. When comparing the times it takes for each sphere to hit the floor, it is found that both spheres hit the ground at the same time of 0.45s. This is due to the fact that the initial velocity of the spheres, which is perpendicular to the acceleration, has no effect on the time it takes for them to fall. Additionally,
  • #1
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Two spheres are launched horizontally from a 1.0m high table. Sphere A has a mass of 1.0kg and is launched with an initial speed of 5.0 m/s. Sphere B has a mass B has a mass of 0.4kg and is launched with an inital speed of 2.5 m/s.

Compare the times for each sphere to hit the floor.
Compare the distances that each travels from the edge of the table.


I just need some explanation in the concept of the first question.
I know the the equation used to find the time is [tex] t = \sqrt{ \frac {2h}{g}} [/tex] and the answer is 0.45s
But I don't understand why the different masses and velocities don't have an effect on the time to fall.
 
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  • #2
the same reason that if you fire a bullet horizontally and drop one at the same instant they will hit the ground at the same instant
 
  • #3
The initial velocity is perpendicular to the acceleration and has no effect on it, and the acceleration of gravity is independant of mass
 

1. What is projectile motion?

Projectile motion is the motion of an object through the air, where the only force acting on it is gravity. This type of motion is often seen in objects that are thrown, launched, or dropped.

2. What are the key components of projectile motion?

The key components of projectile motion are the initial velocity, the angle of projection, and the acceleration due to gravity. These factors determine the path and distance traveled by the object.

3. How is projectile motion calculated?

The motion of a projectile can be calculated using mathematical equations, such as the equations of motion and trigonometric functions. These calculations take into account the initial velocity, angle of projection, and acceleration due to gravity.

4. What is the difference between horizontal and vertical components in projectile motion?

The horizontal component of projectile motion is the motion of the object in the x-axis, while the vertical component is the motion in the y-axis. The horizontal component remains constant, while the vertical component is affected by the acceleration due to gravity.

5. How does air resistance affect projectile motion?

Air resistance, also known as drag, can affect the path and distance of a projectile. This force acts in the opposite direction of the object's motion and can cause the object to slow down and deviate from its intended path. However, its effect is usually negligible for most objects in projectile motion.

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