Projectile Motion find the highest angle

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on determining the highest angle at which a projectile can clear a peak. Participants analyze the equations of motion, emphasizing that the vertical velocity does not need to be zero at the peak of the trajectory. They highlight that the projectile can reach its maximum height before, at, or after the peak, as long as it clears the obstacle. The conversation includes attempts to solve the equations and clarify misunderstandings about projectile motion principles. Overall, the thread illustrates the complexities involved in solving projectile motion problems in relation to obstacles.
kukumaluboy
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Homework Statement



http://postimg.org/image/7yfw1zpq1/

http://postimg.org/image/7yfw1zpq1/ <-Question

The Attempt at a Solution


I don't really understand the question but ill try.

I need to first find the highest angle at which the projectile will clear the peak.
At Peak:

Sy = 0.5(u+Vpeak)t , vpeak = 0
1800 = 125tsinx
tsinx = 14.4
t = 14.4/sinx -equation1

Sx = 0.5+(Ux+Vpeakx)t , Ux=Vx i guess?
2500 = 0.5(250cosx)t
2500 = 125tcosx
tcosx = 20
t = 20/cosx
Substitute eq 2 into eq 1:
20/cosx = 14.4/sinx
cosx = 1.39sinx

Then i don't know how to solve
 
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You need to rethink a bit. It is not necessary that the vertical velocity is zero when passing the peak. Try finding the height as a function of the horizontal distance for an arbitrary angle.
 
need more tips lol
 
This is a nice problem. I agree with Orodruin, that is probably the easiest method. What is your difficulty in following it?
 
At top of parabola Vy = 0

Vy = Uy + at
0 = 250sinx + 9.81t
t = 25.5sinx

After that?
 
kukumaluboy said:
At top of parabola Vy = 0

Yes, but the top of the parabola is not necessarily where the projectile passes the mountain top.
 
Orodruin said:
Yes, but the top of the parabola is not necessarily where the projectile passes the mountain top.

The top of the trajectory of the projectile can be reached before the peak is encountered, at the peak, or after the peak is encountered, so long as the altitude of the projectile clears the top of the peak.
 
SteamKing said:
The top of the trajectory of the projectile can be reached before the peak is encountered, at the peak, or after the peak is encountered, so long as the altitude of the projectile clears the top of the peak.

How does this contradict what I just said?
 
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