Trebuchet Help: Calculating Final Velocity & Acceleration

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SUMMARY

The forum discussion centers on calculating the final velocity and acceleration of a tennis ball launched by a trebuchet. The user initially referenced the formula F=m(v^2/r) for initial velocity but was confused about determining final velocity and acceleration. The response clarified that, assuming no air resistance and equal height, the initial and final velocities are the same. Additionally, the conservation of energy principle (KE + PE = constant) can be applied if the heights differ.

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elvalil
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Trebuchet help!

1. Hi, I am writing a report for a trebuchet project, and trying to find the final velocity of the tennis ball, my teacher told us to just use this :F=m(v^2/r) for initial velocity. so I am really confused right now. I don't know how to find final velocity. Also, which equation do I use for acceleration? A=change in v/ total time; or v^2/t ? /I will just post one set of data.: Range: 7.3m; time :.98s; initial velocity: 5.981m/s.

Please Help..Its Due Tomorrow..AND I am STUCK on this..=[...
THANK U !
 
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Welcome to PF!

elvalil said:
Hi, I am … trying to find the final velocity of the tennis ball, my teacher told us to just use this :F=m(v^2/r) for initial velocity …

Hi elvalil! Welcome to PF! :wink:

Yes, your teacher is right, because the initial and final velocities will be the same (if we ignore air resistance), provided the trebuchet is at the same height as the target. :smile:

(and if it isn't, just use KE + PE = constant :wink:)
 


Thank you!
haha ..it was due today..
so I got my grade already...

but oh well..
thanks anyways...
now that I understand it completely.
thxx=]
 

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