Projectile Motion of Flying Balloon

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves a balloon flying upward at a constant velocity and a package being thrown horizontally from it. The question seeks to determine the time it takes for the package to hit the ground after being launched.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss whether to include the vertical velocity of the balloon in the analysis of the package's motion. There is a focus on understanding the relationship between the package's motion relative to the balloon and the ground.

Discussion Status

Some participants express understanding of the problem's setup, while others clarify the implications of relative motion. The discussion is exploring the correct interpretation of the initial velocities involved without reaching a definitive conclusion.

Contextual Notes

Participants are navigating the complexities of relative motion and the implications of the balloon's upward velocity on the package's trajectory. There is an emphasis on the need for clarity regarding the initial conditions of the package's motion.

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Homework Statement



A balloon is flying directly upward with a constant velocity of 6.0 m/s. When it reaches 145 m above the ground, a package is thrown horizontally at 4.5 m/s with respect to the balloon.

How many seconds after being launched will the package hit the ground?

Homework Equations



One dimensional constant acceleration kinematics equations.

The Attempt at a Solution



I know how to solve the problem mathematically, but my only issue is whether or not to include the vertical velocity (of the balloon) as the vertical component of the package's motion. If I do this then the package's initial velocity would be at an angle. If I don't include the balloon's motion, then the package would have only a horizontal initial velocity.

Is my thinking correct? Do I include the upward motion of the balloon?

Thanks in Advance.
 
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The package's RELATIVE MOTION TO THE BALLOON is said to be horizontal.

Does that answer your question?
 
So that means when solving the problem, I don't need to include the upward motion, because the horizontal motion of the package is already with respect to the upward moving balloon (the package's initial velocity only has a horizontal component, no vertical). Right?

I think I understand. Thanks
 
No, no no!

If Vp is package velocity relative to the ground, Vb balloon velocity relative to the ground, and Vrel the package's relative velocity to the balloon, then we have:
\vec{v}_{p}-\vec{v}_{b}=\vec{v}_{rel}=4.5\vec{i}
 

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