Solving for the Angle of a Baseball's Velocity in Projectile Motion

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the angle of a baseball's velocity just before it impacts the ground after sliding off a 1.3 m high table. Given the horizontal distance of 0.7 m and the acceleration due to gravity at 9.81 m/s², the initial horizontal velocity is determined to be constant. By applying the principles of projectile motion, the angle of impact can be calculated using trigonometric functions, resulting in a definitive angle measurement.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of projectile motion principles
  • Knowledge of basic trigonometry
  • Familiarity with kinematic equations
  • Ability to separate motion into horizontal and vertical components
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the kinematic equations for projectile motion
  • Learn how to apply trigonometric functions to solve for angles
  • Explore the effects of different initial heights on projectile trajectories
  • Investigate real-world applications of projectile motion in sports
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, educators teaching projectile motion concepts, and anyone interested in the mathematical analysis of sports dynamics.

lev1234
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Homework Statement



A 72 g autographed baseball slides off of a
1.3 m high table and strikes the floor a hori-
zontal distance of 0.7 m away from the table.
The acceleration of gravity is 9.81 m/s2 .

What was the direction of the ball’s velocity
just before it hit the floor?
That is, at what angle (in the range −90◦ to
+90◦ relative to the horizontal directed away
from the table) did the ball hit the floor?
Answer in units of degrees



Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution

 
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Welcome to PF!

Hi lev1234! Welcome to PF! :smile:

The ball slides off the table, so its initial velocity is horizontal.

Treat movement in the x and y directions separately.
 

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