Troubleshooting a Uniform Acceleration Problem: Finding Time and Height

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on solving a physics problem involving two stones falling from different heights. The first stone falls from the top of a cliff, while the second stone falls from a ledge 45 meters below the top. Both stones hit the ground simultaneously. The key equations used are derived from the kinematic equation x = ut + 1/2at², where x represents distance, u is initial velocity, and a is acceleration due to gravity. The participants suggest breaking the problem into two parts and using the known distance and acceleration to find the time for each stone.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of kinematic equations, specifically x = ut + 1/2at²
  • Basic knowledge of uniform acceleration and free fall
  • Ability to set up and solve systems of equations
  • Familiarity with the concept of simultaneous equations in physics problems
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the kinematic equations in detail, focusing on applications in free fall scenarios
  • Learn how to derive time and distance equations for multiple objects in motion
  • Practice solving problems involving simultaneous equations in physics
  • Explore graphical methods for visualizing motion and acceleration
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Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on kinematics and free fall problems, as well as educators looking for examples of problem-solving techniques in uniform acceleration scenarios.

Delber
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I'm having trouble with this problem. I can't seem to wrap my head around it and any help would be appreciated.

Homework Statement


The problem is:
A stone falls from the top of the cliff. One second later, another falls from a ledge 45m below the top. The two stones hit the bottom simultaneously. Find the time taken for the first stone to fall and the height of the cliff.


Homework Equations


x = ut+ 1/2at^2 where x is distance and u is initial velocity



The Attempt at a Solution


I tried a couple attempts at the problem. I began by trying to make two equations equal together, but I ran into the problem that the time and distance traveled is not equal so I tried to make a system of equations. I can't figure out how to make a suitable system where I can easily solve for one variable.
 
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Delber, I would first split the two stones into two different things. For the second stone what do you have infromation on? You have x, u and a so surely you can work out the time for the second stone? With that value for time you can calculate the time for the first stone, and again see what values you have.

With these questions usually all the infomration is given and it is a case of writing down what you are told and then seeing what formula works with them.

Have another go :smile:
 
Sorry, but I do not see how I have x to solve for the time of the second stone. The distance traveled of the second stone is only given as an measurement from where the first stone dropped off the cliff.
 
Last edited:

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