Simultaneous equations approach to projectile motion problem

[memoguy]

Homework Statement

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

I just derive two equations and solve simultaneously. It delivers the correct answer of 2933.5m. But it is a bit of a long method, can anyone see an easier way?

 

[ehild]

Without seeing your work we can not tell if it can be done simpler.ehild

 

[memoguy]

Sorry, what I mean is; is there any non-simultaneous way to solve this?

 

[voko]

There is nothing wrong with your method. You might consider the law of sines for an alternative.

 

[memoguy]

There is nothing wrong with your method. You might consider the law of sines for an alternative.

Ok, cool. But that would still involve a simultaneous equation.

 

[ehild]

Ok, cool. But that would still involve a simultaneous equation.

Why is it a problem? It is simple to solve. Show what you did.

Spoiler

Introduce the variable y/x. Or divide the equations with each other.

ehild

 

[voko]

Ok, cool. But that would still involve a simultaneous equation.

I do not think so.

 

[memoguy]

Why is it a problem? It is simple to solve. Show what you did.

Spoiler

Introduce the variable y/x

ehild

No problem at all. Just that someone I was talking to kept saying that I was over thinking it by solving simultaneous but I just can't see how to get around that.

I do not think so.

Ohh! How?

 

[voko]

Ohh! How?

What does the law of sines say?

 

[memoguy]

What does the law of sines say?

sin(A)/a=sin(B)/b=...

 

[voko]

In your problem you have three points: the point of the first sighing, the second sighting, and the light itself. Let's call them A, B, C.

Can you find the length of AC or BC?

 

[memoguy]

no?

-memoguy

 

[voko]

no what?

 

[memoguy]

I am an idiot. I am so sorry, I see it now!