What are the kinematic equations for projectile motion?

In summary, a pitcher throws a ball at an angle of 37 degrees and observes that it stays in the air for 2.5 seconds. Neglecting air friction and the height of the pitcher, the initial speed of the ball and the maximum height reached can be found using kinematic equations. To catch his own ball, the pitcher would have to run at a constant speed equal to the initial velocity in the vertical direction.
  • #1
afcwestwarrior
457
0

Homework Statement


A pitcher throws a ball at an angle 37 degrees with the horizontal and observes that the ball stays in the air for 2.5s before hitting the ground. Neglecting air friction and the height of the pitcher, find
(a) the initial speed of the ball
(b) maximum height reached by the ball
(c) how fast would the pitcher have to run (at constant speed) to catch his own ball?

Homework Equations


v=Vinitial + at
x-xinitial=vinitial (t)+ 1/2 a t^2

basically the kinematic equations



The Attempt at a Solution


Vi=?
Vfinal=0
Ax=0
change in x=?
g=-9.8m/s^2

ok what do i do
 
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  • #2
afcwestwarrior said:

Homework Statement


A pitcher throws a ball at an angle 37 degrees with the horizontal and observes that the ball stays in the air for 2.5s before hitting the ground. Neglecting air friction and the height of the pitcher, find
(a) the initial speed of the ball
(b) maximum height reached by the ball
(c) how fast would the pitcher have to run (at constant speed) to catch his own ball?

Homework Equations


v=Vinitial + at
x-xinitial=vinitial (t)+ 1/2 a t^2

basically the kinematic equations

The Attempt at a Solution


Vi=?
Vfinal=0
Ax=0
change in x=?
g=-9.8m/s^2

ok what do i do

Start with the Vy. You know how long it takes to go up and then goes down. What does that translate into as far as initial velocity up?
 
Last edited:
  • #3
it's positive
 
  • #4
afcwestwarrior said:
it's positive

and ... ?
 
  • #5
i don't know
 
  • #6

1. What is projectile motion?

Projectile motion is the motion of an object through the air, under the influence of gravity, with no other forces acting upon it.

2. How is the trajectory of a projectile calculated?

The trajectory of a projectile can be calculated using the equations of motion, taking into account the initial velocity, angle of launch, and acceleration due to gravity.

3. What is the difference between horizontal and vertical components of projectile motion?

The horizontal component of projectile motion is the motion in the x-direction, while the vertical component is the motion in the y-direction. These components are independent of each other and are calculated separately.

4. How does air resistance affect projectile motion?

Air resistance can affect projectile motion by slowing down the object and altering its trajectory. This is particularly noticeable for objects with a large surface area, such as a feather.

5. Can the maximum height and range of a projectile be the same?

No, the maximum height and range of a projectile are two different values and cannot be the same. The maximum height is the highest point reached by the object, while the range is the horizontal distance traveled by the object. They are calculated using different equations and factors.

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