Solve 2-D Motion Practice Homework: Truck & Watermelons

[blackrose75]

Homework Statement

A truck loaded with cannonball watermelons stops suddenly to avoid running over the edge of a washed-out bridge (Fig. P4.64). The quick stop causes a number of melons to fly off the truck. One melon rolls over the edge with an initial speed vi = 12.0 m/s in the horizontal direction. A cross-section of the bank has the shape of the bottom half of a parabola with its vertex at the edge of the road, and with the equation y2 = 14x, where x and y are measured in meters. What are the x and y coordinates of the melon when it splatters on the bank?


2. The attempt at a solution

I've been attempting it by making a parabola equation out of 12t=x and -9.8(t)^2=y by solving for t and plugging it in so that y=-9.8(x/12)^2 and finding where it intersects with y^2=14x but it doesn't seem to work so perhapse I'm doing something wrong. Thanks though

 

[blackrose75]

bump, I really need help on this for tomorrow please.

 

[baba89]

I would first commend the student for their attempt at solving the problem and using mathematical equations to approach the solution. However, it seems like there may be some errors in their calculations or approach. It would be helpful to double check the equations and make sure all units are consistent. Additionally, it may be helpful to draw a diagram or visualize the problem to better understand the motion of the watermelon and its trajectory. Another approach could be to use the equations of motion for projectile motion and solve for the time when the watermelon hits the bank. Overall, it is important to carefully analyze the problem and use the appropriate equations and units to arrive at the correct solution.