Vector Kinematics: Find Max X Coordinate & Velocity

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves a particle's motion in two dimensions, starting from the origin with an initial velocity and experiencing a specific acceleration. The goal is to determine the particle's velocity and position at the maximum x coordinate.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss various methods to analyze the motion, including using coordinate transformations and focusing on the components of acceleration and velocity. Questions arise about the necessity of plugging in numbers versus working with the equations conceptually.

Discussion Status

The discussion includes multiple interpretations of how to approach the problem, with some participants suggesting focusing on the x components first. There is a recognition of the need to understand the relationship between the components before proceeding further.

Contextual Notes

Participants express uncertainty about the initial steps to take, indicating a potential lack of clarity on how to apply the equations of motion effectively. There is also a mention of calculus knowledge, which may influence the approach taken.

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Problem:
A particle starts from the origin at t=0 with an initial velocity of 5 m/s along the positive x axis. If the acceleration is -3i + 4.5j m/s^2 determine the velocity and position of the particle at the moment it reaches its maximum x coordinate.

Possible equations:
x= xo + vxo t + .5ax t^2

I guess I'm just confused on how to start. I do not think I plug numbers into an equation yet. Do I need to work with the numbers I have before using an equation?
Thanks for any help
 
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You have a couple options. Find the angle that the acceleration vector is at, and use a coordinate transformation so that the acceleration travels in the e_x direction (this way is sort of roundabout and I wouldn't really suggest it, but thought I would throw it out to get you thinking). Or find the separate components and add them together.

Do you know calculus?
 
Am I just adding the components of the acceleration and the velocity? Would that give me my endpoint?
 
So I would focus on the e_x components first. Find what the maximum position will be in the e_x direction; determine how far the particle can go in the x direction with that initial push before it turns around. Then you can figure out what the e_y components are from the information in the e_x components.
 
I have figured it out.

Thanks for all your help
 

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