Projectile motion problem, given the KE at the top of the parabolic arc

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a projectile motion problem where participants are tasked with calculating the angle of projection that results in the kinetic energy at the highest point being one-fourth of the kinetic energy at the point of projection.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants have attempted to set up equations relating kinetic energy and velocity components but express uncertainty about their results, particularly regarding the angle of 60 degrees. Some question the treatment of kinetic energy components and the placement of constants in their equations.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants providing feedback on each other's attempts and questioning assumptions about the kinetic energy components. There is no explicit consensus on the correct angle, and some guidance has been offered regarding the inclusion of horizontal velocity in the initial kinetic energy calculation.

Contextual Notes

Participants are under pressure to understand this problem as it is part of their syllabus, and there are reminders about the forum rules against providing direct solutions.

Bilal Rajab Abbasi
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Homework Statement



Calculate the angle of Projection for which Kinetic Energy at the highest point of trajectory equal to one-fourth of its kinetic energy at point of projection?

Homework Equations



Range and height of Projectile equations

The Attempt at a Solution


[/B]
I've made two equations k.e wise and velocity wise but the answer which is 60 degrees isn't quite right.
 
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Bilal Rajab Abbasi said:

Homework Statement



Calculate the angle of Projection for which Kinetic Energy at the highest point of trajectory equal to one-fourth of its kinetic energy at point of projection?

Homework Equations



Range and height of Projectile equations

The Attempt at a Solution


[/B]
I've made two equations k.e wise and velocity wise but the answer which is 60 degrees isn't quite right.
Please post your work in detail so we can check it. Thanks. :smile:
 
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0.5 * mv^2sinx=0.25*(1/2 mv^2cosx)
Cosx/sinx=4 after cutting the common values
Tanx=sinx/cosx
Tanx=1/4
X=14.1
That was my attempt
In order to get the answer right I did this
(tan inverse of 4 minus tan inverse of -1/4
Answer is 61 degrees neglecting negative angle
But actually its 60.
 
Bilal Rajab Abbasi said:
0.5 * mv^2sinx=0.25*(1/2 mv^2cosx)
But the initial KE includes both the horizontal and vertical components, no? It looks like you are taking the initial vertical KE to be 1/4 of the horizontal KE at the top... Maybe I'm not understanding what you wrote...
 
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Can I get a solution on that please
I have my sendups coming and this question is part of the syllabus
It's an important one.
 
@berkeman is correct. You are ignoring the horizontal component of the velocity for the total kinetic energy at the initial point.

Bilal Rajab Abbasi said:
Can I get a solution on that please
No. Providing solutions (and asking to be provided solutions) is against the forum rules, which you agreed to when you signed up.
 
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Bilal Rajab Abbasi said:
0.5 * mv^2sinx=0.25*(1/2 mv^2cosx)
.

I would say your 0.25 is in the wrong place apart from what was mentioned above about the initial KE.
 
Last edited:
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Thanks. I had corrected that and solved it.
 
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