Projectile Motion: Method of finding initial velocity in a lab

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on determining the initial velocity of a marble launched from a table using projectile motion principles. Key equations include d = vi * t + 0.5 * g * t² and Vi² = Vix² + Viy². The user explores the difference in initial velocity when launching horizontally versus at an angle, concluding that the launching mechanism, such as a spring, affects the initial speed due to energy distribution. The independence of perpendicular components is confirmed, but the launch angle impacts the overall velocity.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of projectile motion principles
  • Familiarity with kinematic equations
  • Basic knowledge of energy conservation in mechanics
  • Ability to perform measurements and calculations in a lab setting
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the effects of launch angles on projectile motion
  • Learn about energy conservation in spring mechanisms
  • Explore advanced kinematic equations for two-dimensional motion
  • Investigate experimental methods for measuring initial velocity in lab settings
USEFUL FOR

Students in physics courses, educators teaching projectile motion, and anyone conducting experiments related to kinematics and energy conservation.

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Homework Statement


Determine the exit speed(initial velocity) of a marble exiting a launcher shot from a table.
The height of the table, distance of the x component and the time can be measured. t=? Vi=? Vix=?

Homework Equations


d= vi * t + 0.5*g*t^2
Vi^2=Vix^2*Viy*2

The Attempt at a Solution


I would be able to find the initial velocity for the marble if I launch it horizontally by setting Viy= 0 and finding the time for the y component and sub that into the x component.

tl:dr: My question is that is would the initial velocity for the marble launched horizontally be the same initial velocity if it was launched at an angle? (since perpendicular components are independent of each other or does that not apply to this situation?)[/color]
 
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Not necessarily. It depends on the launching mechanism. If it is a spring for instance
we get that the stored energy in the spring is now used to increase both the kinetic
and potential energy of the marble, so it would have slightly smaller launching speed.
 

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