Projectile Motion Problem: Solving for Optimal Nozzle Angle for a Fire Hose

AI Thread Summary
To determine the optimal nozzle angles for a fire hose shooting water 2.0 meters away at a speed of 7.1 m/s, two angles can achieve this due to the nature of projectile motion, which follows a parabolic path. The equations of motion for projectiles can be expressed in parametric form, with both x and y coordinates as functions of time. The shortest trajectory to the target is typically achieved at a 45-degree angle, while the second angle will be less than 45 degrees. The discussion emphasizes the need for a solid understanding of projectile motion equations, suggesting that consulting a textbook or teacher may be beneficial for clarity. This problem illustrates the fundamental principles of physics in projectile motion and the importance of angle selection.
jpodo
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I'm having trouble solving this one. Help would be much appreciated!

A fire hose held near the ground shoots water at a speed of 7.1 m/s.

a.) At what 2 angles could the nozzle point in order that the water would land 2.0 m away?

b.) why are there two different angles?
 
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What path does a projectile make? What's the equation of the path?
 
it is shot in an upward angle <90 degrees. I don't know the equation of the path.
 
Projectiles always follow a parabola. Do you know the equation for a parabola as a parametric equation (i.e. expressing both x and y as functions of t)?
 
uh, I'm not really sure. How would you recommend solving this?
 
A web forum isn't really the best substitute for a textbook or a teacher. Have you covered this in class? Is there a textbook that you can refer to?
 
jpodo said:
b.) why are there two different angles?

Is this a homework question?

And yes, there are two different angles.

Hint...What is the shortest trajectory to a terget 2.0m away?

Jim
 
Sorry for the Q about homework. Thread was moved while I was writing.

Jim
 
Yeah this is homework if it matters. I have no clue what the shortest trajectory is. I just need to know what equation pertains to this problem
 
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