Projectile physics problem without the angle given HELP

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SUMMARY

The projectile physics problem involves calculating the horizontal distance traveled by car keys thrown horizontally at 6.0 m/s from a height of 80 m. To solve this, one must first determine the time it takes for the keys to fall 80 m using the equation for vertical motion, which is derived from gravitational acceleration (g = 9.8 m/s²). Once the time is calculated, the horizontal distance can be found by multiplying the horizontal velocity (6.0 m/s) by the time of fall. This method effectively separates the vertical and horizontal motions to arrive at the solution.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic kinematics, including vertical and horizontal motion.
  • Familiarity with the equations of motion: vf = vi + at and Δx = vit.
  • Knowledge of gravitational acceleration (g = 9.8 m/s²).
  • Ability to perform calculations involving time, distance, and velocity.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the concept of free fall and its equations in physics.
  • Learn how to separate vertical and horizontal motion in projectile problems.
  • Explore examples of projectile motion with varying angles and initial velocities.
  • Practice solving similar problems involving different heights and speeds.
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, educators teaching kinematics, and anyone interested in understanding projectile motion without angle information.

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projectile physics problem without the angle given! HELP!

You accidentally throw your car keys horizontally at 6.0 m/s from a cliff 80 m high. How far from the base of the cliff should you look for the keys?

Okay so I honestly don't know how to figure this problem out, but I think that I need to use the equations vf=vi+at and Δx=vit

For the second equation, I know that Δx=(6.0)t. I also know that for the first equation I gave, vf=vi+(-9.8)t. I don't know how to figure it out because I feel like I need the angle in order to find out the rest of the information.

I know it sounds like I am a complete slacker, but I really need help with this as soon as possible! Please help me! Thanks!
 
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The angle is given, it is just given indirectly. Reread the first statement.
 


well I know that if the horizontal velocity is 6.0 then 6.0=vi(cosθ), but it doesn't actually give me any other information, and I need to know the vertical velocity in order to solve the problem.
 


Hi,
Just saw your post and though I guess the answer may come a bit late here it is anyway:

You need to work separately the two relevant coordinates (vertical and horizontal).

Calculate the time the keys will take to fall the 80m of the cliff (vertical acceleration of g (due to gravity) with zero initial velocity.

Once you have this time you work the horizontal direction: a constant speed of 6m/s times the time calculated on the previous calculation.

Hope it helps.
 

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