Question with gravity, speed, heights

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves a pebble being fired from a slingshot, with questions related to its maximum height when fired straight up and when fired in an arc. The subject area includes concepts of gravity, speed, and energy conservation.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the relationship between kinetic energy and gravitational potential energy, questioning how to derive the height from the given velocities. There is an exploration of relevant equations and attempts to clarify the teacher's solution.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants questioning the accuracy of the copied solution and seeking clarification on the derivation of the equations involved. Some participants have provided guidance on the energy conservation principle, while others are exploring the necessary equations.

Contextual Notes

There is mention of confusion regarding the relevance of mass in the calculations, as well as uncertainty about the correct application of energy equations. The original poster expresses being lost and seeks further assistance.

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[SOLVED] question with gravity, speed, heights

Homework Statement


a boy fires a 60g pebble with his slingshot. the pebble leaves the slingshot at 35m/s.
a) how high above the slingshot will the pebble rise if it is fired straight up?
b) if the pebble is fired so that it goes in an arc and has a speed of 10m/s at its maximum height, what will the maximum height be?
c) at what speed would an 80g pebble have to be fired to reach the same height as the pebble in (a)? Assume that the 80g pebble is also fired straight up.


Homework Equations


I'm just going to guess some relevant equations, because I'm so lost.
d = vt
F = mg
Eg = mg[tex]\Delta[/tex]h


The Attempt at a Solution


I tried basic multiplication, division, and other stuff... couldn't figure it out

You're help is greatly appreciated. Thanks a lot

EDIT: I just looked at the teacher's solution that she wrote, and it was mgh = [tex]\frac{mv_{1}^{2}}{2}[/tex], but how did she arrive at that? Thanks
Also, from that equation it gets narrowed down to h = [tex]\frac{v_1^2}{2g}[/tex]
 
Last edited:
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are you sure you copied the solution correctly? remember that when the pebble is shot straight up and reaches its maximum height that 100% of its kinetic energy will have been converted into gravitational potential energy.
 
Sorry, you're right... it should be divided by 2... I'll fix it right now. But, with the correct solution now, how did she arrive at that?
 
what is the equation for kinetic energy? what is the equation for gravitational potential energy?
 
BishopUser said:
what is the equation for kinetic energy? what is the equation for gravitational potential energy?

Kinetic Energy = 1/2mv[tex]^2[/tex]
Gravitational Energy (Eg) = mg[tex]\Delta[/tex]h
 
i guess max height which is required in prblm (a) = u^2/2g

u = initial velocity = 35

so max height = 61.25 m i think we don't need mass here o.O I'm confused too...
 

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