Calculating a Tennis Player's Ball Speed

In summary, the conversation discusses a scenario in which a tennis player hits a ball at a certain angle and distance from the net. The question is how fast the ball was moving when it left the racket in order to clear the net. The answer is found using the equation u^2/2g = d (0.33m) and taking into account the vertical and horizontal components of the ball's speed. The answer is 48.5 ms.
  • #1
bd24
5
0

Homework Statement


a tennis player standing 12.3 m from the net hits the ball at 3° above the horizontal. to clear the net the ball must rise at least 0.33m. if the ball just clears the net at the apex of its trajectory, how fast was the ball moving when it left the racket?

my answer was found by the equation u^2/2g = d (0.33m)
so 0.33m x 19.6 ms^2 = 6.47 ms
the square root of 6.47 ms
= 2.54 ms

Is this right?
 
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  • #2
Hi bd24

You found the initial vertical velocity, not the initial velocity (which I think the question is asking)
 
  • #3
The ball does have to move at that speed upwards, but the ball left the racket 3 degrees above the horizontal. The speed of the ball was a lot faster than 2.54 ms. How is speed in the Y direction related to the overall speed.
 
  • #4
hmmm, so now i have the speed of the ball in the vertical, is it possible to use trig to solve for the horizontal speed? like 2.54/sin(3°) = 48.5 ms?
ps. thanks for all the help
 
  • #5
Yes, that's the answer
 

1. How is a tennis player's ball speed calculated?

The ball speed of a tennis player is calculated by measuring the speed of the ball as it leaves the player's racket using a radar gun or a specialized camera system. The speed is typically measured in miles per hour (mph) or kilometers per hour (km/h).

2. What factors affect a tennis player's ball speed?

There are several factors that can affect a tennis player's ball speed, including the type of racket used, the type of string, the player's technique, the type of court surface, and the atmospheric conditions such as wind or altitude.

3. Can a tennis player's ball speed be accurately measured during a match?

Yes, a player's ball speed can be accurately measured during a match using a radar gun or specialized camera system. However, the measurement may be affected by external factors such as wind or the location of the measurement device.

4. How does a player's ball speed impact their performance?

A player's ball speed can have a significant impact on their performance, as it affects the speed and trajectory of the ball, making it more difficult for the opponent to return. A higher ball speed can also result in more powerful shots, allowing the player to hit winners more easily.

5. How can a player improve their ball speed?

In order to improve their ball speed, a player can work on their technique, use a more powerful racket, or choose a more suitable string. They can also train to increase their strength and power, which can result in a higher ball speed. Practice and consistency are also important factors in improving ball speed.

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