Projectile Motion: Pitcher throwing a ball to a catcher

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the acute angle of elevation for a projectile motion problem involving a pitcher throwing a ball. Given an initial velocity of 20 m/s, gravitational acceleration of 9.81 m/s², and horizontal distance of 40 m, the ball is thrown from a height of 1.8 m and caught at 1 m. Participants emphasize the necessity of using appropriate kinematic equations, as the standard equation for projectile motion does not apply when launch and landing heights differ.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of kinematic equations in physics
  • Knowledge of projectile motion concepts
  • Familiarity with initial velocity and gravitational acceleration
  • Ability to work with angles in radians
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation and application of the kinematic equations for projectile motion
  • Learn how to calculate the angle of elevation using the range equation
  • Explore the impact of varying launch and landing heights on projectile trajectories
  • Practice solving similar problems involving different initial heights and velocities
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Students studying physics, educators teaching projectile motion, and anyone interested in mastering kinematic equations and their applications in real-world scenarios.

ju456one
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Homework Statement


determine the acute angle (in radians) of appropriate elevation in the throwing of a ball, if the initial velocity is 20 m / s, g=9.81 m/s^2 and the distance in x is 40m. The ball leaves the hand of the pitcher with an elevation equal to 1.8m and the catcher receives it at 1m.

Homework Equations


iqEdmyD.png

3. The Attempt at a Solution [/B]
I tried using the equation above, but then why gives me the values (Yo = 1.8m and Y=1m)?
 

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Welcome to the PF. :smile:

In that equation, what is Vo? Is it total in the x direction, in the y direction, etc.? Can you show us your work using that equation?

Plus, it's best to get used to using all of the kinematic equations in solving problems like this, instead of trying to find one that seems to match the problem exactly. In this problem, for example, the takeoff and landing y distances are different, right?

Can you list more kinematic equations that apply to this problem, and try working the problem with those?
 
ju456one said:
I tried using the equation above
That equation is only for the case where launch and land are at the same height. It does not apply here.
 
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