Rearranging the Projectile Motion Base Quadratic Formula for Initial Velocity

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The discussion centers on rearranging the projectile motion equation -16t^2 + Vt + h to solve for initial velocity (V). The user correctly identifies the height as 6 feet and the time as 2.03 seconds, leading to the equation -16t^2 + Vt + 6. After several algebraic manipulations, the user arrives at V = (-6/t) + 16t, but expresses doubt about its correctness. Other participants confirm that the rearrangement is valid, but there is some debate over the clarity of the solution methods presented. Ultimately, the conversation emphasizes the importance of correctly isolating V while acknowledging that different approaches can yield the same result.
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Homework Statement


What I'm supposed to do is to rearrange the this formula -16t^2+Vt+h and solve it for V.
V= Initial Velocity t= time (throwing the ball in a parabolic arc) h= height
I know what the height is and it is 6ft. I also have the time which is 2.03 seconds.
How do I rearrange for V? I got an answer but I'm not sure and doubting if it is correct.

Homework Equations



-16t^2+Vt+h

-16t^2+Vt+6 (if you plug in the height.)

The Attempt at a Solution



-16t^2+Vt+6 What I started with

-16t^2+Vt= -6 Subtracted 6 to the other side

Vt= -6+16t^2 Added -16t^2 to both sides.

V= (-6/t)+16t Divided both sides (every term) by t. This is my answer so far.

I have no idea if I'm correct or not and I have the feeling I'm not. Please help, I'm in US grade 9.
 
Last edited:
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Is that meant to be the physics equation for motion:

h=Vt+1/2gt^2 ?

So then re-arranging you have -1/2gt^2-Vt+h=0

It doesn't seem to be consistent with what you started with. But if we assume you started with the correct equation, yes, you've done it right.
 
Thank you. What I was talking about was just simply if I had the correct answer for:
Taking -16t^2+Vt+h
and rearranging for V to be by itself on one side of the equation.
 
-16t^2+Vt+h = 0
-16t^2+Vt = -h
Vt = -h + 16t^2
V = (-h + 16t^2)/t

your right op, but my way is better
 
Thank you very much guys!
 
ktgster said:
your right op, but my way is better

How is your way better? It's exactly the same...
 

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