Projectile motion of shotputter

AI Thread Summary
To calculate the horizontal distance a shotputter throws a shot from a height of 2.2m, the standard range formula needs modification due to the initial height. The discussion emphasizes using the equations of motion for constant acceleration, particularly incorporating the angle of release. The correct approach involves solving for time using the vertical motion equation, then calculating horizontal distance with the horizontal motion equation. Participants noted the importance of selecting the positive time value from the quadratic equation solution. The conversation highlights the need for proper application of physics principles in projectile motion problems.
steve snash
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Homework Statement


A shotputter throws a shot with an initial speed of 15.5m/s at a 34.0 degree angle to the horizontal. Calculate the horizontal distance given that the shot leaves the athletes hand 2.2m above the ground?


Homework Equations


Distance=((initial velocity)^2 x sin (2xdegrees))/gravity(9.8)

Although this is the level range formula used when height final = height of initial. How do you change this formula to accommodate the fact that the shot lands 2.2m lower than it started?

The Attempt at a Solution


d=15.5^2 x sin 68/ 9.8 =29.09m, I know this must be wrong but i have read through the textbook and it does not help me at all in finding how to work this out. I shows what to do if the degrees is not given but with the degrees what equation can i use?
 
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There isn't any point by-hearting formulae such as the one above. Use the equations of motion for constant acceleration,
v = u + at
s = ut + at2/2
v2 = u2 + 2as

where u and v denote initial and final velocities, a denotes acceleration, and s denotes displacement.
 
Yeah but none of them incorporate the angle of release given? I am guessing that's an important variable, so shouldn't it be used
 
Initial height yo of the shot put is given.At the end it reaches the ground. So the final height y = 0
So
y = yo + Vo*sinθ*t - 1/2*g*t^2.
Solve for t. Then horizontal distance
x = Vo*cosθ*t.
Now solve the problem.
 
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Your equations must be wrong
0=2.2+15.5*sin 34*t-1/2*9.8*t^2
t=-0.225
x=15.5*cos 34*-0.225
x=-2.8912
this answer does not make sense
 
Negative time is not possible. While solving the quadratic equation, you will get two values of t. You have to select the positive value of t.
 
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alright, cheers
 
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