SUMMARY
The discussion centers on calculating the time a basketball player spends in the top and bottom 25 cm of a 70 cm vertical jump. Using the constant acceleration formulae, the acceleration due to gravity is established as -9.81 m/s², and the velocity at the peak of the jump is 0 m/s. The time spent in the top 25 cm is approximately 0.14 seconds, while the time spent in the bottom 25 cm is about 0.14 seconds as well, indicating that the player spends equal time in both segments of the jump.
PREREQUISITES
- Understanding of kinematics and constant acceleration equations
- Familiarity with basic physics concepts such as velocity and acceleration
- Knowledge of gravitational acceleration (9.81 m/s²)
- Ability to perform calculations involving displacement and time
NEXT STEPS
- Study the kinematic equations for uniformly accelerated motion
- Learn how to derive time of flight for vertical motion
- Explore the concept of projectile motion in sports
- Investigate the effects of different jump heights on time spent at various heights
USEFUL FOR
Physics students, basketball coaches, sports scientists, and anyone interested in biomechanics and athletic performance analysis.