Solve for Building Height: Kinematics & Pythagorean Theorem

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves determining the height of a building from which a rock is projected at an angle, using concepts from kinematics and the Pythagorean theorem. The scenario includes variables such as mass, initial velocity, angle of projection, horizontal distance traveled, and gravitational acceleration.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the need to break down the initial velocity into its x and y components and question how to calculate the final y-velocity. There is uncertainty about determining the vertical velocity component and how to apply kinematics equations effectively.

Discussion Status

Some participants have offered guidance on splitting the initial velocity and using kinematics equations, while others have pointed out the need for clarification on variable notation. Multiple interpretations of the problem setup are being explored, but no consensus has been reached.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working under the assumption that the ground is level and that the building's side is vertical. There may be constraints related to the specific equations and variables that need to be clarified further.

garcia1
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Homework Statement


A 0.21 kg rock is projected from the edge of
the top of a building with an initial velocity of
7.82 m/s at an angle 56 above the horizontal.
Due to gravity, the rock strikes the ground at
a horizontal distance of 10.5 m from the base
of the building.

How tall is the building? Assume the
ground is level and that the side of the build-
ing is vertical. The acceleration of gravity is
9.8 m/s2 .
Answer in units of m.


Homework Equations



Kinematics equations. Pythagorean Theorem: A +B = C

The Attempt at a Solution



i tried to think about what I needed, and what equation would help me find it. In this case, the height h, I chose the following equation:

H = Vy - VoY / 2A from the initial kinematics equation of Vy = Voy + 2AH

From here, however, I am unsure how to determine Vy, which is the only variable I would need.
 
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All those variables in the exponent section should have exponents of 2 themselves.
 


Vy = vsin \Theta
 


You'll have to split your initial velocity into x and y components. (Use the Pythagorean theorum, your initial velocity will be the hypotenuse.)

Once you've established what the initial y-velocity is, use your kinematics equations to find the final y-velocity. ( vf = vi + a*t )
 

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